Difference Between Orixás and Spiritual Entities in Umbanda

One of the points that most often generates doubt for those getting to know Umbanda is the difference between Orixás and Spiritual Entities. Many times, due to lack of information, both are confused as if they were the same. But understanding this distinction is essential to grasp the spiritual logic of Umbanda and to respect its foundations.

Orixás: Divine Forces

In Umbanda, the Orixás are not spirits that incorporate into mediums. They are divine forces, universal principles that sustain Creation. Each Orixá is a direct emanation of God (Olorum) and governs one of the Thrones of Umbanda — Faith, Love, Knowledge, Justice, Law, Evolution, Generation, and, as a complementary force, Vitality.

In Umbanda practice, the Orixás are understood and revered as cosmic powers. It is important to remember, however, that in many traditions and mythological narratives, certain human figures are associated with these Orixás — for example, Xangô is remembered in some traditions as a historical king whose life and strength exemplified the justice he represents. Still, this does not mean that the Orixá is merely an individual spirit: in Umbanda, the Orixá remains a universal force whose presence is manifested above all through vibrations, songs, colors, and natural elements, and not through direct incorporation in mediums.

Spiritual Entities: Guides Who Accompany Us

Spiritual Entities, on the other hand, are spirits who once had human experiences and, after their passage from the physical plane, placed themselves in service of charity and evolution within Umbanda. They incorporate into mediums to guide, advise, heal, and teach.

These entities present themselves through archetypes recognized within Umbanda, such as:

• Caboclos: spirits that bring the strength of the forest, courage, and ancestral wisdom.

• Pretos-Velhos: spirits of formerly enslaved people, wise and patient, who transmit humility, faith, and guidance.

• Children (Erês): spirits that manifest purity, joy, and simplicity.

• Exus and Pombagiras: spirits that work in the field of vitality, communication, and balance between matter and spirit.

• Boiadeiros, Sailors, Gypsies, Cangaceiros, among other archetypes.

These entities speak with us, give advice, point out paths, and help us with our everyday challenges.

The Relationship Between Orixás and Entities

While the Orixás are universal divine forces, the Entities are the spiritual workers who act under the vibration of those Orixás. We can say that the Orixás are like the sun — the source of light — and the Entities are like the rays — the ways in which that light reaches us.

For example:

• A Caboclo of Oxóssi works under the vibration of the Orixá Oxóssi, manifesting his energy of knowledge, abundance, and connection with nature.

• A Preto-Velho of Xangô works under the vibration of justice and balance brought by Xang

In this way, we can see that the Orixás do not speak directly with us, but that their forces are expressed through the work of the Entities.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between Orixás and Entities is essential to walk within Umbanda with awareness. The Orixás are divine principles that sustain the universe, while the Entities are spirits who manifest in our plane to assist in our evolution.

The two complement each other: the Orixás sustain the energy, and the Entities apply this energy in our lives in a practical, loving, and charitable way.

Axé!

Bruno Pereira - Pai Pequeno