How to properly petition Elegguá? A complete guide in Santería (Osha-Ifá)

In the Rule of Osha-Ifá, also known as SanteriaMondays are considered special days for attending to Elegguá, the orisha that open the paths and guides our destiny.

However, your attention should not be limited to just one day. Elegguá must be invoked dailybecause its influence is key in every decision, opportunity, and step we take in life.

Importance of asking Elegguá correctly

Elegguá is the owner of the roads and crossroadsBefore starting any project, work, or spiritual request, it is essential to have their approval.

Even within the Yoruba pantheon, other orishas require his permission before acting.

8 tips for asking Elegguá correctly

• 1. Preparation and appropriate attire:
  Present yourself clean and well-groomed. This shows respect for the orisha.
• 2. Respect for traditions:
  Some houses of worship have specific customs. Always respect the beliefs and practices of your spiritual lineage.
• 3. Speak clearly and loudly:
  Speak to Elegguá clearly. You don't need to know Yoruba; what matters is your intention.
• 4. Avoid negative words:
  Do not use insults or offensive language in their presence.
• 5. Ask for paths, not just money:
  Instead of asking for money directly, request opening of paths, stability and prosperity.
• 6. Never ask for evil:
  Avoid wishing harm, illness, or misfortune upon others. Elegguá is just and acts with balance.
• 7. Daily greeting:
  Greet Elegguá when leaving and entering your home to strengthen your spiritual connection.
• 8. Respect in offerings:
  Elegguá should always be the first to receive food or attention in any ceremony.

I pray to Elegguá to open paths

Traditional prayer:

Omi tuto, Ana tuto, Tuto okan, Tuto laroye, Tuto elei.

Sentence in Spanish:

Master of the roads, my father Elegguá, cleanse my destiny,
Keep the bad things away and allow you to move forward with health, stability, and protection.
May there be no loss, illness, or obstacles in my path.

Complete prayer to ask Elegguá

I invoke you Elegguá, guardian of the gates and paths, to open opportunities in my life.
Allow peace, prosperity, work, love, stability, and abundance to come.

May all negativity be banished and may my destiny be guided by light, wisdom, and good fortune.
Protect my family, my loved ones, and all those around me.

Final tips for connecting with Elegguá

• Have faith in what you ask for
• Act with intention and respect
• Be consistent in your spiritual practice
• Listen to your intuition

Elegguá responds to faith, respect, and constancy.
Attending to it with love strengthens your path and opens new opportunities.

Maferefún Elegguá, owner of the roads

Honoring Elegguá daily allows one to maintain spiritual balance,
to protect one's destiny and move forward with clarity in life.

Maferefún Elegguá today, tomorrow and always.