The loa are the spirits of Haitian Vodou and Louisiana Voodoo. They are intermediaries between Bondye – the Supreme Creator, who is distant from the world – and humanity. Unlike saints or angels, however, they are not simply prayed to, they are served. They are each distinct beings with their own personal likes and dislikes, distinct sacred rhythms, songs, dances, ritual symbols, and special modes of service. Contrary to popular belief, the loa are not deities in and of themselves; they are intermediaries for, and dependent on, a distant Bondye or god.
