White Keel Embroidered in Lace

The white headpiece in Santería (the Orisha-Ifá tradition) is an essential scarf or turban for women, used to cover the head during ceremonies, spiritual masses, and head prayers. It represents purity, peace, respect, and spiritual protection, and is indispensable for Iyawós (initiates).  

• Ritual Use: It is a mandatory part of women's religious attire (similar to the cap worn by men) for ceremonies.
• Meaning of White: It symbolizes spiritual cleanliness and harmony, and is directly related to the deity Obatalá.
• Protection and Preparation: It is used to protect the head (ori), the place where the guardian angel resides, especially during initiation processes.
• Head Prayers: Essential during head-refreshing ceremonies