Kumina

By Crusader1307

The Kongo Peoples of Jamaica were brought to that Island Nation as Slaves. They, like many in Their plight, brought with Them Tribal Folk Magic and Religious Beliefs. These concepts were merged into other forms of Voodoo (Folk Magic) Customs, of which ‘’Kumina’’ is identified. The Kongo believe that various Spirits (of Ancestors as well as Nature), are summoned into Human Hosts via the constant drumming of ‘’Spirit Drums’’ and Chants. Normally, a Shaman requires all members of The Tribe to gather and participate in order for The Spirit to ‘’come to Earth’’ and inhabit a ‘’willing’’ Participant. Normally, such Spirits do not take up permanent (long) residence. Those that ‘’allow’’ Kumina to take place (especially with regards to healing of illness, etc.) – are seen as ‘’Vessels’’ and are often ‘’used’’ again.