Nana Buruku

The Primordial Grandmother

Nana Buruku is one of the most ancient Orishas, predating even some versions of the creation story. She represents the primordial mud from which humanity was formed and is considered the grandmother of all the Orishas.

Older Than Creation

Some traditions hold that Nana Buruku existed before Olodumare, representing the primordial void from which even the supreme creator emerged.

The Mud of Creation

When Obatala created humanity, he used clay or mud provided by Nana Buruku. This makes her the material source of human existence.

Enemy of Iron

Nana Buruku has an ancient enmity with Ogun and iron. Her worshippers may not use metal knives in her rituals, using only wooden or bamboo implements.