SYMBOLISM OF GEODIVERSITY IN AFRO-BRAZILIAN RELIGIONS

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4215/rm2024.e23011

Abstract

If, throughout evolutionary history, an analogy is made between humans and nature using elements of geodiversity, symbolic processes will emerge for human beings. They construct a sacralized nature revealed in their worship, practices, and beliefs, where nature becomes a symbolic element imbued with meaning. These elements of geodiversity are found in various religious traditions, with notable examples being Indigenous/Shamanic practices, Umbanda, Candomblé, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity, among others. As a result, this article focuses on African rituals which represent their original matrix and a tradition primarily marked by orality (in contrast to the main Western monotheistic religions that have sacred texts) and direct religious learning through daily practice in the “terreiro” (the place of worship). The analysis of geodiversity and its use in these religious manifestations leads to the reflection that it is still necessary to recognize and disseminate geodiversity and its various uses more extensively, as it assists us in appreciating understanding and interpreting religions from a different perspective, providing more consistency and authenticity.

Keywords: Afro-Brazilian Religions; Geodiversity; Simbolism.

Author Biographies

  • Arlon Cândido Ferreira, Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil

    PhD in Geography from the Fluminense Federal University (UFF). Post-doctorate in Geography from the Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais (PUC/MG)

  • Luiz Eduardo Panisset Travassos, Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte (MG), Brazil

    PhD in Geography, Professor in the Department of Geography and Permanent Professor of the Postgraduate Program in Geography at PUC Minas. CNPq Research Productivity Scholarship (PQ-2)

  • Ivair Gomes, Federal University of São João del Rei, São João del Rei (MG), Brazil

    PhD in Geography from the Fluminense Federal University. Professor in the Department of Geosciences and the Postgraduate Program in Geography at the Federal University of São João del-Rei (UFSJ)

  • Rodrigo Corrêa Teixeira, PUC Minas

    Professor do Departamento de Relações Internacionais e Professor Permanente do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Geografia da PUC Minas.

  • Múcio do Amaral Figeuiredo, Federal University of São João del-Rei, São João del Rei (MG), Brazil

    PhD in Natural Sciences from the Federal University of Ouro Preto (UFOP). Professor in the Department of Geosciences and the Postgraduate Program in Geography at the Federal University of São João del-Rei (UFSJ).

  • Leonardo Cristian Rocha, Federal University of São João del-Rei, São João del Rei (MG), Brazil

    PhD in Geography from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG). Professor in the Department of Geosciences and the Postgraduate Program in Geography at the Federal University of São João del-Rei (UFSJ)

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Published

2024-08-07

Issue

Vol. 23 (2024)

Section

Artigos

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