Story Summary
Explore the myth of Legba the Messenger, the clever Fon deity who bridges the gap between humans and gods through his mastery of every spoken language.
In the beginning, Mawu-Lisa, the dual creator of the universe, divided the world among their children. To one was given the sea, to another the earth, and to another the iron. But when it came to Legba, the youngest and most cunning of the offspring, Mawu-Lisa gave him no kingdom of his own. Instead, Legba was designated as the divine linguist and messenger. Because Mawu-Lisa spoke a language so complex that the other gods could not understand it, Legba became the only bridge between the creator and the created. He spent his days traveling between the heavens and the earth, reporting the deeds of men to the gods and delivering the gods' instructions to the world. However, Legba was a trickster. He realized that by controlling information, he held more power than those who ruled the land or sea. He would often twist a message slightly to test a person's character or to see if the other gods were paying attention. One day, to prove his importance, he caused a misunderstanding between the sky and the earth, leading to a drought that only he could resolve. Through his wit, he ensured that no prayer could reach the ears of the creator without his assistance. Thus, Legba became the master of the crossroads, the one who must be honored first in every ceremony, for he alone holds the key to the gates of the divine.
The Moral
Clear communication and wit are more powerful than physical strength or vast territories.
“He who holds the key to the tongue holds the key to the heavens.”
Fun Fact
In Fon culture, Legba is often represented by a mound of clay with a wooden phallus or a carved figure at the entrance of a village to protect the community from chaos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Legba the Messenger?
The story teaches that intelligence and the ability to communicate are essential tools for navigating life. It emphasizes that those who facilitate understanding hold a unique and vital power over even the strongest rulers.
Who is Legba in Fon mythology?
Legba is the youngest son of the creator duo Mawu-Lisa in the Dahomey (Fon) tradition of Benin. He serves as the intermediary between the mortal world and the divine pantheon known as the Vodun.
Why is Legba known as a trickster?
He is a trickster because he often uses his role as a messenger to manipulate situations, testing the morality and patience of humans and gods alike. His tricks are usually intended to expose truth or maintain the balance of the universe.
What does the crossroads symbolize in Legba's stories?
The crossroads represent the point where the human and spirit worlds intersect, as well as the moments of choice in a person's life. Legba stands at this junction to guide or challenge those making important decisions.
Why must Legba be addressed first in rituals?
Because he is the only one who speaks all languages and understands the will of the creator, no communication with other gods is possible without him. Honoring him first ensures that the gates to the spirit world are opened.
Is Legba related to Papa Legba in Voodoo?
Yes, Legba originated with the Fon people of West Africa and evolved into the figure of Papa Legba in Haitian Vodou and other African diasporic religions through the Atlantic slave trade.
