Gunguna

In 21 Divisiones, Gunguna is a Metrésa of love spells and the amarre, through which romantic relationships are bound or nailed down so that no person or force can sever the bond. For this reason, she is syncretized with Saint Helen, patron saint of troubled marriages, and the nails of crucifixion. The three nails also carry apotropaic significance, enveloping the devotee in the sacred protection that flows through the relationship between the ancestors, Bondye, and the lwa.

In Gunguna, the delicacy of a flower coexists with the ferocity of a warrior. She belongs to the court of benevolent, radiant metresas and carries a deeply feminine current of creation, fertility, manifestation, beauty, and sensuality. Yet, she moves through both Rada and Petro vueltas, revealing a nature capable of tenderness as well as formidable force. Discreet yet powerful, she advances without unnecessary spectacle: a mistress of magic, a magnificent dancer, and a presence proficient at igniting desire almost effortlessly. Like the clove associated with her mysteries, she can bring spice to situations that have become insipid.

Her gentleness should never be confused with passivity. Gunguna may arrive softly or in a hotter, conquering expression associated with protection and justice. Gunguna is both the rose and the thorn; to know how to approach her is to understand both. When calling Gunguna, intention and offerings matter: devotees should address her respectfully and clearly communicate not only what they seek but how they wish that desire to manifest. Roses, perfume, apples, red soda, cloves, pineapples, red wine, and pink champagne may invite her sweetness, while iron, fire, and nails belong to her hotter aspect.

Gunguna may lend her favor to affairs of the heart, including dominating or binding a romantic partner, but her reach extends well beyond love workings. Servidores may also approach her for protection, justice, stability, overcoming obstacles, financial concerns, inner balance, and breaking torpidity. Working together, she and her companion Papá Candelo may be called upon to restore movement, bring resolution, and produce desired outcomes. Her colors include pink, light green, orange, and white, and she is traditionally served on Wednesdays and Saturdays, as well as on her feast day, August 18th.