Honesty is the best policy, say Cuban Yoruba priests

Honesty is the best policy, says the 2020 Letter of the year, issued by Cuban Yoruba priests, in line with the ruling deity, Oshun and accompanying one, Obatala.

Oshún will rule this year, syncretizing with the patroness of Cuba, the Virgin of Charity of Copper, queen of love and fertility, owner of fresh waters, the rivers, streams and springs.

Obatala, is the accompanying deity, one of the seven main orishas (emissaries of Olodumare, or Almighty God) of the pantheon of this religion originating in Africa, is the creator of the Earth, owner of intelligence, thoughts, human dreams and everything white.

This was announced at a press conference at the Yoruba Cultural Society in this capital.

The Letter predicts an increase in infectious diseases caused by promiscuity, as well as epidemics due to poor hygiene and social indiscipline.

It warns against the increase in the consumption of alcoholic beverages, drugs and narcotics, as well as the breakdown of the traditional family due to promiscuity, lack of authority and loss of values.

Cuban Yoruba priests recommend to be tolerant and patient in interpersonal relationships and avoid infidelity and promiscuity.

The letter also advises to avoid fraud, embezzlement, deception and adultery, among the recommendations of the representatives of that Afro-Cuban religion.

Among the prohibitions and taboos that govern the next 12 months are 'not eating Okra (okra) to avoid humiliation and disappointment,' and 'not eating Akra (bean cake) to avoid bad luck.'

It advises not to lie, steal or appropriation of something improperly to avoid bad fortune, the wrath of the orishas and shame.

The Yoruba priests urge not to pay good with evil 'to avoid the slow disaster that will plunge into our lives painfully.'

Regarding clothing, they recommend not to wear red dresses, nor garments that have a monkey of any kind painted on them.

The Letter gives believers a series of tips to have a better life during the year that begins and is the result of a ceremony in which select priests of Ifá (babalawos) participate, who have the most years of initiation of the country.