The ceremony of the necklaces or Elekes is one of the first rituals in Santeria, marking the beginning of a believer’s spiritual path within the Yoruba religion. It is also known as the half-seat of the saint and represents the connection between the initiate and the Orisha through consecrated necklaces.
In this article, we will explore the meaning of the ceremony, its origin, the process of consecrating the necklaces and the rules to be followed after receiving them.
What is the Ceremony of the Necklaces or Elekes?
The Ceremony of the Elekes is an initiation ritual in Santeria in which the believer receives five sacred necklaces that symbolize the protection and guidance of the Orishas. These necklaces act as a connection between the physical and spiritual planes, providing balance and protection against negative energies.
During the ceremony, the godfather or godmother delivers the five main Elekes, each one consecrated to an Orisha. From this moment on, the initiate acquires a spiritual commitment to the religion and its norms.
Origin and Meaning of Elekes in Santeria
Historical roots and connection to Yoruba culture
The use of Elekes necklaces comes from the Yoruba tradition, a belief system born in West Africa that reached the Caribbean and America with the African diaspora. In Santeria, the necklaces are a material manifestation of the Orishas and represent their energy in the life of the believer.
Learn about the origin of the Yoruba religion
Spiritual symbolism of the Elekes
Each necklace has a specific color and pattern, reflecting the identity and power of the Orisha to which it belongs. They not only serve as an amulet of protection, but also indicate the commitment of the initiate to his or her spiritual path.

Preparation for the Elekes Ceremony
Who can receive the necklaces?
Not just anyone can receive the Elekes. For this, it is necessary to have the guidance of a godfather or godmother, who will evaluate if the initiate is ready for this spiritual commitment. Generally, this ceremony is performed on people who desire protection, spiritual guidance or who have been called by the Orishas.
Prerequisites and personal preparation
Prior to the ceremony, the initiate must prepare physically and spiritually. Some requirements include:
- Refrain from consuming alcohol or drugs before the ritual.
- Maintain a respectful and reflective attitude.
- Wear white clothing, a symbol of purity in Santeria.
- Have your sponsor present, who will guide the process.
The role of the godfather or godmother in the ceremony
The godfather or godmother is the one who has the authority to deliver the necklaces, since they must be previously blessed and consecrated to the Orishas. His function is to teach the initiate the rules and responsibilities involved in receiving the Elekes.
Necklace Ceremony Steps
Choice of the Elekes according to the Orishas
The five necklaces given in the ceremony are related to the main Orishas of the Yoruba religion:
- Elegua: Necklace of red and black beads.
- Oshún: Necklace of yellow and amber beads.
- Shangó: Necklace of red and white beads.
- Yemayá: Necklace of blue and transparent beads.
- Obatalá: Necklace of all-white beads.
Each of these necklaces represents the protection and guidance of these Orishas over the life of the initiate.
Consecration of the necklaces
Before being delivered, the Elekes must be purified in a special ceremony, where they are consecrated with prayers, sacred herbs and spiritual elements that strengthen their power.
Ritual of delivery and blessing
During the ceremony, the initiate kneels on a mat, and one by one the necklaces are presented on his body, while sacred instruments such as the agogó (Obatalá’s bell) are played. This process symbolizes the union between the believer and the Orishas.
Prayers and prayers during the ceremony
The godfather or godmother recites prayers in the Yoruba language, asking for the protection and blessing of the initiate. In addition, offerings are made to the Orishas so that they will accept and guide the new religious person.

Meaning of each necklace and its connection to the Orishas
The Elekes given in the ceremony represent the protection and blessing of the five main Orishas of Santeria. Each one has a special meaning and a particular energy that influences the life of the initiate.
Eleguá (Red and black)
Eleguá is the owner of paths and opportunities. Her necklace is composed of red and black beads, symbolizing the duality between good and evil, the opening of paths and protection against obstacles.
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Oshún (Yellow and amber)
Oshún is the Orisha of love, sweetness and prosperity. Her necklace is made of yellow and amber beads, representing wealth, happiness and fertility.
Shangó (Red and white)
Shangó is the Orisha of lightning, strength and justice. His necklace, of red and white beads, symbolizes his warrior energy and his balance between passion and reason.
Yemaya (Blue and transparent)
Yemayá is the mother of the ocean and protector of the family. Her necklace of blue and transparent beads represents the depth of the seas, motherhood and wisdom.
Obatalá (White)
Obatalá is the Orisha of purity and peace. His necklace, composed only of white beads, symbolizes clarity, justice and spiritual leadership.
Rules and care after receiving Elekes
After receiving the necklaces, the initiate must follow a series of rules and restrictions to maintain his energy and respect for the Orisha.
Essential rules for the use of Elekes
- Kiss the collars before putting them on or taking them off.
- Do not get them wet, as water can weaken their spiritual charge.
- Remove them when consuming alcohol or attending parties, to avoid absorbing negative energies.
- Do not use them during sexual intercourse, out of respect for the Orishas.
- Do not use them during sexual intercourse, out of respect for the Orishas.
- They should be kept in a clean white cloth when removed.
- They can be used when sleeping only in cases of illness, according to the sponsor’s indications.
These rules ensure that the Elekes retain their power and continue to protect the initiate.
Myths and Facts about the Elekes Ceremony
Myth 1: Elekes grant supernatural powers.
Reality: The necklaces do not confer powers, but function as a means of protection and spiritual connection with the Orishas.
Myth 2: Anyone can receive the Elekes without preparation.
Reality: Only those who have been guided by a godfather or godmother can receive the necklaces, as they entail a commitment to the religion.
Myth 3: If a necklace breaks, it is a sign of bad luck.
Reality: When an Eleke breaks, it is interpreted as the Orisha absorbing a negative energy in place of the initiate, protecting him/her from a greater evil.

Spiritual benefits of the Elekes Ceremony
The Ceremony of the Necklaces not only represents a rite of initiation into Santeria, but also provides a series of spiritual and emotional benefits to the initiate.
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Protection against negative energies
Elekes function as an energetic shield that protects the believer from bad influences, envy and adversity. It is believed that they absorb negative energies and, in some cases, may break when they have fulfilled their protective function.
Connection with the Orishas
Each necklace symbolizes the presence and guidance of the Orisha in the life of the initiate. Through them, the relationship with the spiritual world is strengthened, allowing to receive their help and blessings.
Emotional balance and stability
Many initiates report that after receiving the Elekes, they experience greater inner peace, mental clarity and emotional stability. The ceremony marks a spiritual rebirth, chasing away worries and strengthening faith.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can anyone receive Elekes?
No. Only those who have been mentored by a sponsor and have shown respect for the religion can receive them.
How much does the ceremony cost?
The cost varies according to the country and the priest who performs it, but generally includes the consecration of the necklaces and the materials used in the ritual.
What happens if I lose or break a necklace?
If an Eleke breaks, it should no longer be used. It is recommended to take it to your sponsor to determine what to do with it, as it may be a sign that it absorbed a negative energy instead of the initiate.
Is it obligatory to remain in the religion after receiving the Elekes?
Receiving the Elekes is a first step in Santeria, but does not obligate the initiate to continue with the full consecration process. However, it is expected to maintain the respect and norms of the religion.
The Ceremony of the Necklaces or Elekes is a fundamental ritual within Santeria, representing the initiate’s commitment to the Orishas and their spiritual protection. The Elekes are not simple accessories, but sacred symbols that require respect and care.
Through this ceremony, the believer receives protection, balance and a deeper connection with his spiritual path. Understanding its meaning and following the proper rules will allow making the most of this blessing in life.
If you are interested in this process, it is important to seek guidance from an experienced godparent to receive the ceremony properly and with the respect it deserves.
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