Is Benin a country? Where is Benin capital? What is voodoo voodooism? what does Voodoo mean? Is Voodoo a religion? Voodoo, a witchcraft religion? Is Benin a republic? What are Benin people like? Is Benin in Africa? what is Benin Kingdom?
There are a lot of religions in the world. Some of them made their way to become official in different countries.
There’s a religion you never heard of that’s official in one country, Voodooism in Benin.
Let’s have a little info about this unique country and then we continue on this religion.
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Recent History of Benin
Portugal exported most slaves they needed from Benin and for this reason, many African people who are living in the western countries have Beninese background.
After Portugal, France made Benin a colony and rather than the slavery business, they were interested in the gold mines and they also had cultural influences. In 1960, when Benin became independent and chose French as their official language.
People in Benin
Almost all of the population is a combination of African tribes with very few white people.
Outside of the capital, Porto-Novo, most people have barely seen a white person in their life, then if you’re white expect to be called and noticed a lot.
In fact, you are more of an attraction for them than they are for you!
What to do in Benin
Voodoo, an Official religion in Benin
OK, back to the topic! Voodooism is exactly like witchcraft and spirit worshiping you probably already have in your mind!
Voodoo priests use special herbs, both for healing and poisoning enemies. Sometimes they feel like the spirits they’re connected to, need a sacrifice which is normally either a chicken or sheep.
Pythons Temple, a Voodoo holy shrine in Benin
This temple is the Mecca of Voodooism where they worship Python snakes.
The snakes which reside in the temple usually go out during the day into the city and come back at nights or people bring them back!
Ganvie, Africa’s Venice in Benin
People use boats to get around this village. On average, each family has 3 boats at home, one for the father, one for the mother and one for the children to go to school.
There’s even a street (As they refer to it) that’s for finding the love of your life!
Dantokpa Market in Benin
Tokpa (what locals call it) is the largest open-air market in West Africa. It is located in an area of over 20 hectares. It is a valuable source for Benin’s economy.
World-class Beaches in Benin
Last but not the least, the beach!
Benin is home to beautiful beaches in the south and there are a lot of hotels to choose from.
This was a very interesting read, thank you!
My pleasure.
Thank you for your comment!
Thanks for mentioning Ganvie, their Venice. I didn’t know about that before now.
My pleasure!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Like!! Really appreciate you sharing this blog post.Really thank you! Keep writing.
Thank you for your encouraging comment!
Very interesting! Thank you for sharing
Glad you liked it!
Thank you for your comment!
Very interesting food for thought, thanks for sharing.
Pleasure, Glad you enjoyed it!
Interesting information and pictures on Western Africa Vodun!
Thank you! I appreciate your comment.
A place I have never been in Africa. They look happy.
Yes, they are! Sometimes I feel like the less people know about luxury life and its perks, the happier they are
MAY GOD PROTECT AND FORGIVE US
Amen