Voodoo, (JuJu ) the mysterious yet misunderstood religion. Despite the veil of secrecy that may surround the religion, many are considering returning to the practice.
Many feel that mainstream religious practices keep individuals in mental bondage, rather than allowing for free thought. This is precisely why some have decided to go back to the practices of their elders and ancestors.
Despite how you may feel about the religion, it appears it is here to stay. Particularly in Benin.
August 1st marks the Independence day of Benin. Being that the former home of the Dahomey Empire celebrates its freedom from the rule of the French on this day in 1960, it is only right to learn about one of its fascinating attributes.
Benin is also the capital of Voodoo. Being so, scroll through to learn about six voodoo temples in Benin that are still bustling:
Temple of Pythons
Ouidah, a town in Benin houses the temple of pythons. Here they are seen as revered creatures and are welcome into the resident’s homes with open arms. They are symbolisms of peace, prosperity and wisdom.
Word on the street is the temple is a small room that houses many of the slithering animals. For a price, one can visit and even take photographs with the snakes.
The Lodge of the God Zangbeto
This place is strapped up so tight, not much can be surmised from it. It is described as a building made of hay straws.
Members of the lodge dress up in haystack costumes and carry sticks to beat disorderly citizens into submission.
Manikpe Tolapata Temple
The Manikpe Tolapata Temple is located ten minutes outside of Porto Novo, the capital of Benin.
It appears many secret ceremonies take place here which is why information about this temple is scarce. Unless one offers up a cash donation.
Djeho Temple
The Djeho Temple is located in Abomey, the former capital of the Dahomey Kingdom as Benin was once known.
The temple is housed in the palace of King Ghezo. Glele, the son of King Ghezo erected the mortar that is located within the temple – reportedly using the blood of 41 slaves.
The palace is also said to have once housed 4,000 wives.
Dankoli Sacrifice Shrine
Considered one of the most powerful shrines, the Dankoli Sacrifice Shrine is the place where ceremonies are performed in exchange for favorable outcomes from the Gods.
The shrine boasts a mound of blood, feathers and guts that visitors must spit libations made of locally produced gin named Akbateshie.
Visitors who wish to proceed in ceremonial activities may be asked to offer blessings to the Gods in the form of libations or peg a nail into a shrine.
Temple Behumbeza
Temple Behumbeza is overseen by Hounnon Behumbeza, the priest in charge.
It encompasses two temples, one in Contonou and the other is spread out through ancestral temples located in Ghana, Togo and Benin.
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