Yemaya, also spelled Yemoja or Yemaja, is a revered deity in Yoruba mythology and one of the Orishas in the Yoruba pantheon. She is associated with the ocean, motherhood, fertility, and the feminine principle. Yemaya is often regarded as the mother of all Orishas and is considered a protective and nurturing force.
In artistic representations, Yemaya is typically depicted as a woman holding a fish, symbolizing her connection to the sea. The colors blue and white are associated with Yemaya, representing the colors of the ocean and the waves. Shells, boats, and other marine symbols may also be associated with her.
Yemaya is venerated in various Afro-diasporic traditions, including Santería, Candomblé, and Vodou, where she may be syncretized with various Catholic saints depending on the cultural context.
Devotees often turn to Yemaya for blessings related to fertility, childbirth, protection, and guidance. Her nurturing and maternal qualities make her a beloved and influential figure in Yoruba-influenced religions and spiritual practices.