How to Relate to the Spiritual Entities in Umbanda?

Umbanda Entities; Lines of Work; Relation; Incorporation.

After learning about the lines of work and understanding who the spiritual guides in Umbanda are, a natural question arises: Now what? How do I connect with these entities? Can I talk to them? Ask for help? How do I know they’re listening? And when I receive a consultation, how should I absorb what they say?

In this post, we’ll talk about how to cultivate a healthy, respectful, and genuine relationship with the spiritual guides that work in Umbanda.

1. Trust and surrender: the first step

Before anything else, it’s important to trust. Not in a blind way, but with an open heart — allowing yourself to experience spirituality with vulnerability and honesty. The guides work with love and charity — and even when they say things that are hard to hear, they are always by our side to help us with what we truly need, not just what we want.

Trust means understanding that even when we don’t comprehend everything, a greater wisdom is at work.

2. Entities don’t perform miracles — they show paths

A common mistake is thinking that Exu, Caboclo, or Preto-Velho will “fix” all our problems magically. The entities are not automatic problem solvers, nor are they here to take away our free will.

They show paths, offer guidance, open doors, and remove obstacles — but the journey is ours to walk. Faith, focus, and action are always needed.

3. Interpret with your heart and common sense

Not everything a spiritual guide says should be taken literally. Many times, they speak in symbols, metaphors, or expressions that make more sense when felt than when logically analyzed.

If something seems confusing, don’t be afraid to ask (respectfully), or reflect on it and let the understanding grow with time.

4. Don’t create spiritual dependency

Umbanda teaches autonomy. It’s okay to seek spiritual consultations often, but turning a spiritual guide into a “crutch” for every decision can hinder your growth. The entities want to see you evolve — to make choices, to stumble, and to learn.

They walk with you, not for you.

5. Nurture the connection outside the terreiro too

Your relationship with the guides doesn’t end when the ritual (gira) ends. You can talk to them at home, say a prayer, light a candle with faith, listen to sacred songs, or take a spiritual herbal bath.

What matters is maintaining respect and alignment. The guides don’t require elaborate rituals — they come close to those who cultivate sincerity, humility, and gratitude.

Conclusion

Building a relationship with the spiritual guides of Umbanda is a path of ongoing learning. They don’t expect perfection — they value truth. They don’t want idolatry — they want trust. They’re not looking for followers — they’re looking for allies in building a world with more light.

Approach them with an open heart, and allow yourself to feel what reason can’t yet explain. Spirituality doesn’t impose — it invites.

Axé. Bruno Pereira - Pai Pequeno