Iansã / Oyá

Arlindo Cruz's song "Iansã / Oyá" is a powerful tribute to Iansã, also known as Oyá, a deity in Afro-Brazilian religions such as Candomblé and Umbanda. The song opens with the invocation "Eparrei Oyá," a traditional greeting to Iansã, who is revered as the goddess of winds, storms, and transformation. The lyrics also reference Santa Bárbara, a Catholic saint syncretized with Iansã, asking for her protection over the Brazilian people. This blend of African and Catholic elements reflects the syncretic nature of Brazilian spirituality, where different religious traditions coexist and enrich each other.

The song is not just a prayer for protection but also a call for social justice and peace. Arlindo Cruz sings about the struggles of the Brazilian people, asking Iansã to take away malice and bring happiness and peace. The lyrics highlight the hardships faced by the community, such as the lack of basic necessities like food and medicine. The repeated question, "Será que a força da fé que carrega nosso viver pode mover montanhas?" (Can the strength of faith that carries our lives move mountains?), underscores the hope and resilience of a people who turn to their faith in times of adversity.

Moreover, the song touches on the broader theme of faith as a transformative force. By invoking Iansã's power to move mountains and cleanse the world of evil, the song suggests that faith can bring about significant change. The imagery of stars falling from the sky and the rising dust symbolizes the upheaval and eventual purification that faith can bring. This message resonates deeply in a country where spirituality is often intertwined with the fight for social justice and community well-being.