Agwe

deity · Benin · West Africa

Agwe (also called Agbe) is the Fon vodun of the sea and the ruler of the ocean realm. One of the children of Mawu and Lisa, Agwe was born as part of a pair of twins (both named Agbe) who were given dominion over the sea pantheon. Agwe commands the oceans, seas, and all marine life. He is the protector of sailors, fishermen, and those who travel by water. He is also the master of Aido Hwedo, the cosmic rainbow serpent who now rests coiled in the ocean depths — when the serpent shifts, Agwe's domain is disturbed, causing earthquakes and tidal waves. Agwe demands offerings for safe voyages and ab

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