Oungan (also written as houngan) is the term for a male priest in Haitian Vodou (a female priest is known as a mambo). [1] The term is derived from Gbe languages (Fon, Ewe, Adja, Phla, Gen, Maxi and Gun).

An initiatory tradition, Vodouists commonly venerate the lwa at an ounfò (temple), run by an oungan (priest) or manbo (priestess). Alternatively, Vodou is also practised within family groups or in secret societies like the Bizango.

She rose to fame after the publication of Karen McCarthy Brown's ethnographic account Mama Lola: A Vodou Priestess in Brooklyn. Mama Lola's success provided her with a platform to challenge Western misconceptions of Haitian Vodou and make television appearances.

Apr 11, 2025 · Vodou is a worldview encompassing philosophy, medicine, justice, and religion. Its fundamental principle is that everything is spirit. Humans are spirits who inhabit the visible world. The unseen world is populated by lwa (spirits), mystè (mysteries), anvizib (the invisibles), zanj (angels), and the spirits of ancestors and the recently deceased.

Oungan, in Vodou, a male priest who serves as a leader of rituals and ceremonies. A woman of the same position is referred to as a manbo. It is believed that oungans obtain their positions through dreamlike encounters with a lwa (spirit).

The Voodoo religion has both male priests (Houngan) and female priestesses (Mambo). Studying the art of priesthood takes a long time and isn’t easy. The student studies and learns the priest ways from an early age, and can only be committed at the age of 31 or older.

Jun 13, 2023 · Brown, sometimes also called Julie White or Julia Black, is described in local legend as a voodoo priestess who lived at the edge of the swamp and worked with residents of the town of Frenier....

Jun 29, 2017 · A Vodou priest, or houngan, is held in high esteem for his ability to connect people with the spirits. Troi Anderson [/]

Jul 7, 2004 · During the ceremony, the houngan or mambo—priest or priestess—sacrifices a sanctified chicken or other animal to the Loa. Participants then ask the spirits for advice or help with problems.

Sep 28, 2024 · This article explores the fascinating world of Voodoo Priestesses in Haitian Vodou, shedding light on their important roles, rituals, and the cultural significance they hold. Through this journey, we will uncover the spiritual practices and beliefs that shape the lives of these revered figures and the communities they serve.