Final answer:
Orisha worship is a traditional religion practiced by the Yoruba people of Nigeria and the African diaspora. It is characterized by multiple gods, ancestor worship, ritual and ceremonial practices, connection with the natural world, and community and social structure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Orisha worship is a traditional religion practiced by the Yoruba people of Nigeria and the African diaspora. It is characterized by several dominant characteristics:
- Multiple gods: Orisha worship involves the worship of multiple gods or deities, each representing different aspects of nature and human experiences.
- Ancestor worship: Orisha worship includes the veneration of ancestors as protectors and guides. Ancestors are believed to hold the power to intervene in the lives of their living descendants.
- Ritual and ceremonial practices: Orisha worshipers engage in various rituals and ceremonies to mark important life events and seek blessings and guidance from the gods.
- Connection with the natural world: Orisha worship recognizes the sacredness of the natural world, including animals, plants, and the elements.
- Community and social structure: Orisha worship is deeply embedded in the Yoruba community and social structure, with traditional leaders playing important roles in religious rituals and practices.