Rada loa


Rada is a major family of loa in Haitian Vodou.

Scope

They include older, beneficent spirits who can be directly traced to Dahomey Vudus of West Africa.

Etymology

"Rada" is a cognate of Allada.

Function

Rada loa are guardians of morals and principles, related to Africa, whereas Petro loa are connected to the New World and are considered more aggressive. Some loa have both Rada and Petro manifestations.

Identities

Some Rada loa are: Legba, Loco, Ayizan, Damballa, Ayida-Weddo, Erzulie, and Agwé.