The machete in Santería (Yoruba religion) is a fundamental sacred tool, primarily associated with Oggún, the orisha of metals, work, and war. It is used to open paths, remove obstacles, clear negative energies, and represents the strength, defense, and sacrifice necessary to move forward.
Attribute of Oggún: Oggún uses the machete to cut brush in the forest, which symbolically represents opening paths of health, abundance, and prosperity in the believer's life.
Spiritual Cleansing: It is used to "cut" or strip away negative energies, spiritual blockages, and witchcraft, protecting the person's aura.