Three Kings, and Camels, and Sheep, and Santeria…Oh My!

Three Kings, and Camels, and Sheep, and Santeria…Oh My! January 5, 2014

Three kings, and camels, and sheep, and santo…Oh my! by Lilith Dorsey

It is time for the feast of the Epiphany. January 6 is the sacred celebration of the arrival of the three kings bringing gifts to the newborn Christ child. According to the story the kings were named Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar, and they brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

3 Kings Incense photo by Lilith Dorsey. All rights reserved.
3 Kings Incense photo by Lilith Dorsey. All rights reserved.

Here in New York City the feast of the Three Kings are a big deal. We have parades with camels, parties, and hundreds of school kids lining the streets wearing paper crowns. In the Santeria religion, also better known as La Regla Lucumi, the Three Kings are a big deal too. It is a time for bringing in luck and success. People make oils, incense, and floor washes to celebrate this time of year. Many commercial preparations are available but you can also make you own.

 

Three Kings Bath

2 cups Spring Water

9 drops Frankincense oil

9 drops Myrrh oil

9 drops Sandalwood oil

3 drops amber resin/oil

dash Vanilla extract

shake of gold glitter

 

Mix all ingredients well, in a glass or ceramic bottle. Add a dash of the mixture to your bath to bring about success and a quick change in fortune. Some also say this formula is useful in releasing negativity and painful memories.

 

The Three Kings Parade in New York City is truly a sight to behold. People take to the streets along with camels, sheep, and donkeys. It is an unusual and amazing sight to behold,here’s what I saw and I put it together so you can see for yourself.  If you like these furry fellows, please share, comment something sheepy and subscribe to the youtube channel!


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