Vodun or Voodoo

An old and secretive religion first practiced in Haiti by African slaves. The slaves were forbidden to practice Yoruba, their own religion. They were instead forced to become Catholics by the French who ruled Haiti. Vodun became something of a hybrid with mostly African but some Catholic traditions. Catholic Saints and pageantry were mixed into Vodun, as those aspects of Catholicism appealed to the slaves. Because Vodun became as forbidden as Yoruba it was practiced in secrecy by the slaves. Today, the French no longer rule in Haiti, slavery was abolished, but Vodun remains - and is still secretive. Vodun is also practiced in the Haitian cultural centers of New Orleans, New York, Miami, and the Dominican Republic. Perhaps because of it's secretive roots Vodun varies widely from place to place. Even in Haiti there are great differences in Vodun as practiced. This tradition of secrecy and variation is apparent in other forbidden religions, such as Witchcraft.

Vodun worship centers around the Gods of the Yoruba Pantheon, called the Loa. Vodun Priests are called either Hougan, Mambo, or Bokor. A Hougan is a man, a Mambo is a woman. A Bokor may accept money and often will concentrate on black magic. Black magic, however, is not usually an important part of the religion for most practitioners.

Hoodoo is regarded by many as a derogatory or mocking name for Voodoo. Others see Hoodoo as a variation of Vodun with the spells and potions intact - but most spiritual aspects missing.

Zombies are often associated with Voodoo black magic.