Houngan

In the Haitian religion of Vodu, a priest who serves as a leader in performing rituals and ceremonies is referred to as the houngan or Hungan. The Houngan or “chief of the hun” is the name associated with men leaders within the Vodu religion, whereas women of the same position are referred to as mambo.

It is believed that houngans obtain their position through dream-like encounters from gods or has of the Vodu religion. During these dream-like visions, houngans are chosen to be servants of the religion, and, as such, they are expected to oversee burials, child birthing, healing/cleansing rituals, and other religious ceremonies. In addition to the advisory role, the houngans perform and lead ritual dances, songs, and chants to evoke a Lwa. It is ...