Umbanda is a syncretic Afro-Brazilian religion that blends African traditions with Roman Catholicism, Spiritism, and Indigenous American beliefs (Wikipedia, 2018).
Umbanda is related to the Brazilian religion Candomble, but it is not identical.
Umbanda is mainly found in southern Brazil and in small numbers in the neighboring countries of Uruguay and Argentina.
There is no uniformity of beliefs among adherents of Umbanda. But there are central ideas which are generally held. These views include belief in the supremacy of Olorun (or Zambi), Supreme Creator.
Olorun is also present in Candomble, Regla de Ocha ( Santeria ), and Ifa. Olorun has various forms within Umbanda.
Most followers of Umbanda also acknowledge Catholic saints as divine energies called Orixas. Umbanda adherents commonly seek to communicate with spirits of the dead.
In Umbanda, members subscribe to beliefs similar to karma and reincarnation.
Umbanda temples are led by mediums who interact with various spirits on behalf of the living. Leaders of Umbanda temples are often referred to as Pai-de-Santos ("priests") or Mae-de-Santos ("priestesses").
The temples are called Terreiro ( meaning “backyard” because they once used to be located in people’s homes) or Tenda ( meaning “tent”).
Currently, most Terreiros are built like homes and Catholic churches.
Gatherings in temples occur often and depending on the particular Terreiro or branch of Umbanda, ceremonies may include chanting, offering food and other items to spirits, dancing, as well as eating and drinking.
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References
Birman, P. (1985). What is Umbanda? Editora Brasiliense.What is Umbanda
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