Babalu Aye
Babalú-Aye (from yoruba Obalúayé), Oluaye, Ṣọpọna, or even Obaluaiye, is the orisha of healing in all its aspects, of the land, of respect for the elderly and protector of health. He is called whenever necessary to prevent infirmity. He promotes the cure for illnesses. He is always close to Iku (the orisha responsible for taking life), as he promotes healing for those who are close to death.[1]
However, some fear Obaluaye because he is believed to bring disease upon humans, including smallpox, in which he is known as Ṣọpọna.
