Sacred Arts of Haitian VodouIntroductionAbout HaitiRoots of VodouRitualSpiritsTools of Worship
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Roots
European Mysticism

Mystic organizations such as the Rosicrucians, and esoteric groups like the Black Pullet or Red Dragon came from Europe in the 18th century. So did card reading, crystal gazing, and other European occult and divinatory practices. All flourish in Haiti today, and are quite compatible with Vodou. Some good examples of European mystic elements found in Vodou are:

Figures (Djab)
Certain grotesque forms, called 'djab' (devils), are constructed in cement and placed in sanctuaries to intimidate those who seek to engage their powers. These figures are often associated with secret societies such as Bizango, which serve supplicants through the dark hand of magic. Like its form, the name djab derives from European tradition (djab from the French 'diable'). The Christian concept of the devil, however, is alien to Vodou.
The Red Dragon
The Red Dragon is a cult object derived from European mystical practices which flourished in Haiti and France during the 18th and 19th centuries. Parallel occult practices such as the Black Chicken continue to enjoy popularity among certain Vodou practitioners.
Magic Books (grimoire)
Grimoires or 'wizard spell books' and other occult texts were popular during colonial times and still circulate widely in Haiti. Isolated from European magical sources, the grimoires are now used as magic 'how-to' manuals.
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