How to Behave in an Umbanda Gira?

If you are attending an Umbanda gira for the first time or want to better understand how to act within the terreiro, it is essential to know some guidelines that ensure respect, harmony, and good alignment with the spiritual works. Umbanda is a religion of love, charity, and welcoming, and every detail within the terreiro has a purpose. Let's understand how to behave in a Umbanda gira.

1. Appropriate Attire

Most terreiros have a dress code, always requiring discreet clothing for visitors. In right-handed works, we generally wear white or light-colored clothing, while in left-handed works, it is common to wear black or dark-colored clothing. Avoid short, low-cut, or very tight clothing. Ideally, opt for comfortable clothing that demonstrates respect for the religious environment.

2. Arrival at the Terreiro

Upon arriving at the terreiro, greet everyone with respect, and if it is your first time, seek out someone from the house to introduce yourself and understand how the place operates. If the terreiro has an altar or congá, mentally ask for permission before approaching, and if you feel inclined, say a silent prayer.

3. Silence and Respect During the Gira

During the gira, remain silent and avoid side conversations. The spiritual environment requires concentration, and unnecessary noise can disrupt both the mediums and the entities at work. If you need to speak, do so discreetly and only if truly necessary.

Parents or guardians accompanying small children should instruct them on the importance of silence and respect for the environment, ensuring they remain calm during spiritual works.

4. Participation in the Gira

If you are only observing, watch and feel the energy of the place. If you wish to consult with an entity, follow the terreiro's guidelines on the appropriate time for this. Respect the queue, and when approaching the entity, sit calmly and wait for permission to speak. Remember that the entities work with love and charity, so trust in what is conveyed.

5. Prohibitions and Precautions

• Do not cross your arms or legs during spiritual works, as this can block energy.

• Do not consume alcoholic beverages or narcotics before the gira.

• Do not touch the atabaques (drums) or sacred objects without permission.

• Never interrupt an incorporated medium unless absolutely necessary.

  
  

6. Duration of the Works

An Umbanda gira has a minimum necessary time for all energies to be properly worked on. Each entity attends for as long as needed, respecting the needs of each consultee. Therefore, it is important to be patient and understand that consultations cannot be rushed. Respecting the time of each spiritual work ensures that everyone receives proper assistance and that the gira unfolds harmoniously.

7. Gratitude and Farewell

At the end of the gira, it is always good to express gratitude for the opportunity to be in the terreiro and for the energy received. If you consult an entity, thank them respectfully, even if the message is not exactly what you expected. Before leaving, greet the leaders of the house and depart with the same serenity with which you entered.

By following these guidelines, you will have a more enriching and respectful experience within Umbanda. The gira is a sacred moment where spirituality works for the good, and every gesture of respect strengthens this connection even more. Welcome, and may the light of the Orixás illuminate your path!

Pai Pequeno Bruno Pereira