Gods and Goddesses
African
Yoruba
Shango

TYPE: Chthonic storm god

ORIGIN: Yoruba [Nigeria, West Africa]

INFORMATION: As and earth deity he was once a mortal man, the king of Oyo, who transformed himself into an immortal. According to tradition, during his life he breathed tongues of fire. He then ascended into the sky by climbing a golden chain and become the god of thunder and lightning. He is also god of justice, punishing thieves and liars. His consorts include Oya, Oshun, and Oba. Cult followers of Shango are believed to be able to make lightning strike an adversary. In shrines to Shango, the image of the god is adorned with a ram's head. Also Sango