While there are many stories and interpretations of Oshun, our understanding is rooted in the Oshè-Otura story out of the Yoruba diaspora. Tradition holds that deities were sent down from the Heavenly realm by Olodumare (the most powerful) in order to create the world. Oshun was the only woman of 17 deities in the group. As they were starting to create, it is said that one of the male deities suggested that Oshun wasn't needed. Offended, Oshun left the Earth and went to sit on the Moon. When she left, all of the fresh water on the Earth dried up. Without water and love (her presence), the deities on earth found their efforts to be unsuccessful. They couldn't make tools, build houses, grow food, etc. Frustrated, they returned to the Heavenly realm to complain to Olodumare. Looking around at the group, Olodumare questioned where Oshun was and eventually summoned her from the moon. When Oshun arrived, she told Olodumare about how she was treated. He made the men issue an apology which she accepts.

In summary, the story of Oshun exemplifies various dimensions of the power of women and serves as a cultural and spiritual narrative that acknowledges and celebrates the diverse strengths and contributions of women.

THE STORY OF OSHUN

Oshun is two syllables and pronounced oh-shoon.

HOW IT'S PRONOUNCED

Oshun's Garden gets its name from Oshun, an orisha (or goddess) who originates from the Yoruba people in West Africa. Oshun is often said to be the goddess of fresh water and love. To tap into Oshun's energy is to encourage femininity, harmony, sensuality, healing, and balance. She is said to love to be adorned in yellows and golds. Hence our love for yellow.