Que Cavalheiro É Aquele

The song 'Que Cavalheiro É Aquele' is a spiritual hymn from the Afro-Brazilian religion of Umbanda. The lyrics describe a figure riding through the blue sky, identified as 'seu Ogum Matinata.' Ogum is one of the Orixás, deities in the Yoruba religion, which has a significant influence on Umbanda. He is associated with war, metalwork, and leadership, and is revered as a powerful warrior and protector. The reference to Ogum as a 'cavaleiro,' or knight, riding through the sky symbolizes his role as a celestial defender, particularly of the Southern Cross ('Cruzeiro Sul'), a prominent constellation in the southern hemisphere and a cultural symbol in Brazil.

The repetition of the question and answer in the lyrics emphasizes the importance and reverence of Ogum's presence. The chant 'eh, eh, eh, eh, eh, ah, eh, eh, eh, seu Canjira' is a call to another entity, Canjira, who is also associated with Ogum. In Umbanda, the act of 'pisar na Umbanda' refers to the practice of grounding or making a spiritual presence known within the religion's ceremonies. This song is likely used in rituals to invoke the protection and strength of Ogum and to welcome the spirits associated with him into the sacred space of an Umbanda terreiro (place of worship).

The song serves as a reminder of the syncretism present in Umbanda, where African, Indigenous, and European elements blend together. It highlights the cultural and religious diversity of Brazil and the deep connection between the spiritual and the everyday lives of its practitioners. The song is not just a call to a deity but also an expression of faith and a request for guidance and protection from the spiritual forces that Umbanda followers believe in.