Lucky Charms of Benin

Benin is the spiritual homeland of Vodun (voodoo), where this sophisticated theological system originated before being spread to the Americas through the slave trade. The Fon and Ewe peoples venerate a complex pantheon of divine forces (lwa), and each person carries or displays specific objects associated with their protective lwa. The Dan (rainbow serpent), Mawu-Lisa (the divine twins), and Sakpata (the earth deity) are among the most important.

Cowrie shells are the primary sacred currency of Vodun practice — used in divination, offered to shrines, and woven into the ceremonial garments of priests. The Fa divination system produces personalized protective prescriptions. Benin City was the capital of the ancient Benin Kingdom whose bronze cast figures, including the famous Benin Bronzes, encode royal protective power.