Pomba Gira

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Pomba Gira is the classification of an entity, and an entity herself, who is commonly employed and worked with by practitioners of Umbanda and Quimbanda in Brazil. Pomba Gira is viewed as the consort of Exu, who is the messenger of the Orixas in Candomble. Exu is similar in archetype to the greco-roman Hermes/Mercury, in that he is the messenger, businessman, trickster, keeper of roads, keeper of keys, etc. He is associated with the colors red & black, and the number three. He is often depicted as the devil; not in relation to purgatory, but in that he will do things to upset peoples' lives when they become too smug or complacent.
While Exu manifests and encompasses male sexuality, fertility and strength, she in turn personifies female beauty, sexuality, and desire. Pomba Gira is viewed as a beautiful woman who is insatiable. She is venerated with great respect and care, as her worshippers concede that her wrath can be firm and strong. Pomba Gira is often invoked by those who seek aid in matters of the heart and love.
While some might say that Pomba-Giras only manifest through female or gay mediums, this is not true. Many heterosexual males do incorporate Pomba Gira. Some Pomba Giras do display the characteristics of being promiscuous, talkative and vulgar. However she has many paths or avatars, and will be more or less inclined towards that behaviour depending on the path.

[edit] Some paths of Pomba Gira

Maria Padilha

Pomba Gira Cigana

Pomba Gira Rainha

Pomba Gira Arrepiada

Maria Molambo

Rosa Caveira

Pomba Gira das Sete Encruzilhadas

Pomba Gira do Cruzeiro

Pomba Gira da Calunga

Pomba Gira Mirongueira

Maria Quitéria

Rainha das Rainhas

Pomba Gira Mocinha

Rainha Sete Encruzilhadas

Rainha do Cemitério

Pomba Gira das Almas

Praia

Dama da Noite

Pomba Gira Sete Calungas

Maria Mulambo das Sete Catacumbas

[edit] References

There is very little literature available either in English or in Spanish on Pomba Gira.

  • "Pomba-Gira: Enchantments to invoke the formidable powers of the female messenger of the gods" by Antônio Alves Teixeira