The island of Puerto Rico is home to many different religions, including Santeria, which is practiced by many in the Caribbean.
Its origins can be traced back to the Yoruba tribe living in Nigeria in West Africa. She was brought to America by slaves in the 18th century. The followers of this religion believe in the existence of one almighty god, but also in many lesser gods known as the Orisha. Those who intend to undergo initiation should cleanse themselves during the week with various herbs.
It takes no less effort and time to honor the many gods of this pantheon. One way to show them your respect is to sacrifice animals, primarily chickens and goats. They are the most favorite food of the so-called Puerto Rican "vampire".
In November 1992, three years before the Chupacabra phenomenon became world famous, many in Florida were thrilled that Santeria had suddenly gained a huge following. The Babalu-Aye Church, founded in 1974, has acquired great importance.
As a result, the city of Hialeah, located in Miami-Dade County, passed legislation that prohibited the practice of animal sacrifice. In 1992, the church demanded the repeal of this law, pointing out that sacrifices are part of the tradition and the prohibition is against the constitution. On June 11, 1993, the church won the case in court.
Sacrifices are made by a priest, initiated into all the subtleties and nuances of religion. The reasons for the sacrifice can be very different. This is usually a desire to get rich. As with many things paranormal, the ritual will not come cheap for the client.
The priest first rubs the client's skin with the body of the animal to be sacrificed. Thus, a connection is established between the client and the victim and the desires of the first are transferred into the flesh of the second. The killing of an animal is believed to allow these desires to be heard by the Orishas, who can and give a person what he wants for himself. The animal's body is then disposed of, but sometimes it is eaten. The blood is collected in a bowl to offer to the gods. Nowadays, the sacrifice can be symbolic, not literal, when the animal is only cut through the skin or even pretends to be killed.
In some cases, the followers of this religion were accused of passing off the bodies of animals left after their sacrifices as the result of a chupacabra attack. But if anyone is guilty of such a lie, then it is an offshoot from Santeria, called Mayombe or Palo Mayombe. His rituals are essentially the same as those of Santeria, but the Palo refuse to make them symbolic.
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The group, which continues to practice blood sacrifices, began around 1994 or 1995. For a lot of money, they perform rituals designed to give wealth and power. Many actors, politicians, musicians, actors and royalty are said to ask them to perform the ritual. Sacrifices and other rituals are performed deep in the jungle.
The Palos, of course, did not create the legend of the Chupacabra. But it is believed that in some cases they use it in order to hide their cruel rituals.
GUSAKOVA IRINA YURIEVNA