Shango (Sango)
Shango, also known as Xango, is a powerful and charismatic deity, worshiped as the god of thunder, lightning, and fire.
- Pantheon: African Traditional Religion, Santeria, Vodou, Candomble
- Deity Title: The God of Thunder, The Lord of Fire, The King of the Drum
- Deity Symbol: Double-headed axe, drum, fire
- Home Plane: The Spirit World, The Elemental Plane of Fire
- Deity Level: Intermediate God
- Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
- Aliases: Xango, Jakuta, Chango
- Superior: None
- Traditional Allies: Oya, Ogun, Obatala
- Traditional Foes: None
- Divine Artifact: Double-headed axe
- Servants: Shango’s Warriors
- Servitor Creatures: Fire elementals, thunder spirits
- Sacred Animal: Ram
- Manifestations: Loud thunder, blazing fire, dancing to the beat of drums
- Signs of Favor: Finding a four-leaf clover, a sudden increase in luck and success
- Worshipers: Warriors, musicians, athletes, politicians, gamblers
- Cleric Alignments: Chaotic Neutral, Chaotic Good, Chaotic Evil
- Specialty Priests: Shango’s Warriors
- Holy Days: The annual celebration of Shango’s day of birth, during the dry season
- Portfolio: Thunder, fire, music, dance, virility, leadership, justice, politics
- Domains: Chaos, Strength, Fire, War, Protection, Luck
- Favored Weapon: Double-headed axe
- Favored Class: Bard, Cleric, Paladin, Sorcerer
- Favored Race: Human, Half-Orc, Dwarf
- Duties of the Priesthood: To spread the teachings of Shango, to lead by example and be strong and just leaders, to keep the traditions of music and dance alive
- Major Cult/Temple Sites: Yorubaland, Trinidad, Haiti, Cuba
- Benefits: Protection during battle, increased luck and success in life, guidance in leadership and politics.
Born of royalty in ancient Africa, Shango was a mighty king who ruled with wisdom, bravery, and compassion. He was known for his legendary military victories, and his ability to bring peace and prosperity to his kingdom.
However, his rule was cut short when he was betrayed by those closest to him. In a fit of rage, Shango unleashed his powers over fire and lightning, raining down bolts of energy upon his enemies and reducing their cities to ashes. Though his enemies were defeated, Shango was consumed by his own anger and power, and he was cast out of his kingdom.
But despite his fall from grace, the people continued to worship Shango, who had become a powerful spirit with the ability to bring both good and bad fortune to those who sought his favor. His cult grew, and he soon became one of the most revered gods in Africa, his power and influence spreading far beyond his original kingdom.
As a deity, he is a complex and multifaceted character, capable of both great kindness and great wrath. He is fiercely protective of his followers, and is known to grant them strength, courage, and protection in times of need. He is also a master of fire and lightning, wielding these elements to bring both blessing and curses upon those who cross him.
Despite his fearsome reputation, he is deeply compassionate, and is always seeking to bring balance to the world. He sees himself as a champion of the oppressed, and will go to great lengths to defend the innocent and right the wrongs of the world.
For those who worship Shango, he offers guidance and protection, and is revered as a source of strength and wisdom. His followers are encouraged to embrace their own inner fire, to find their own path in life, and to stand up for what is right, no matter the cost.
In summary, he is a powerful and charismatic deity, known for his ability to bring both blessings and curses upon those who seek his favor. He is fiercely protective of his followers, and is dedicated to bringing balance to the world. Whether through his mastery of fire and lightning, or his compassion and wisdom, Shango is a force to be reckoned with, and a god to be revered.