Although not invoked first, Damballah is the father of all the Loas. He is the archetypal wise Loa, the patriarchal serpent divinity, associated with wisdom, peace, purity, benevolence, life and innocence.
Damballah is highly respected and is one of the most revered African gods. Along with his companion Ayida Wèdo, the rainbow serpent, he is viewed as the Loa of creation.
Ceremonies for Damballah and/or Ayida Wèdo are extremely particular and highly elaborate, and all rules must be followed to the letters. First, everyone in the assistance must entirely be dressed with freshly clean, immaculate white clothes, women are to have their head tied with silk white scarves.
It is very common for people to be asked to leave the temple if they're not in proper attire when Damballah is expected. Smoking, and alcoholic consumption are strictly forbidden. After many sacred African litanies, Damballah will finally come in possession. As a snake, he doesn't have feet; the possessed immediately falls on the ground; undulating just like a snake to get by; does not talk, but only makes hissing and whistling noises. It is believed that his wisdom is too preeminent for us mortals to be expressed through words.
Damballah is not a very demanding Loa in terms of offerings; usually a hen egg placed on a mound of flour, along a bottle of white anisette syrup or honey. A clean white bed sheet usually covers his head while he consumes his offerings.
Damballah is associated with the biblical figure Moses and, the Catholic Saint Patrick, in consideration of his affiliation with snakes.
Alternatives: Damballah Wèdo, Damballah Laflanbo (Damballah the torch),
Damballah Tokan (intelligent snake),Odan (wisdom and endless life), Pyè Damballah.
Color: White
source:http://www.hougansydney.com/voodoo-spirits/damballah
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