The Osha II - Julio Garcia Cortez

Following his classic volume, The Osha: Secrets of the Yoruba-Lucumi-Santeria Religion in the United States and the Americas, Julio Garcia Cortez (Obba Bi) delivers The Osha II. Designed to stand alone as a comprehensive study guide, this book offers a deeper appreciation for the intricate nuances of the Yoruba-Lucumi-Santería tradition.

The Osha II focuses heavily on oral traditions, capturing the essential legends, stories, and sacred lore central to Yoruba culture. At the heart of this work are the patakís-structured religious narratives that provide necessary context for the wisdom of the Orishas. These vital texts clarify the spiritual messages relied upon by Osha Priests and Priestesses, serving as indispensable tools in the traditional divination process.

To help readers navigate the unique linguistic landscape of the faith, Mr. Garcia Cortez includes a meticulous, thorough chapter detailing essential Lucumí vocabulary and expressions. Furthermore, drawing from over 50 years of proficiency as a Priest of Osha, the author shares a deeply personal aspect of his practice: an unaltered daily reading for every day of the year, complete with traditional proverbs and their deep structural meanings, exactly as they were passed down to him by his Godfather.

We owe a profound debt of gratitude to Julio Garcia Cortez for his continued generosity in sharing this wealth of knowledge. Grounded in decades of personal experience and spiritual devotion, The Osha II remains an invaluable resource that continues to enlighten initiated priests, guide neophytes, and inspire anyone seeking a genuine understanding of the Yoruba-Lucumi-Santería religion.