Iemanjá is one of the most revered orixás in African-based religions, especially in Candomblé, Umbanda, and Afro-Brazilian practices. She is the goddess of the seas, saltwater, fertility, and motherhood. Iemanjá is considered the mother of all the orixás, and her energy is connected to creation, protection, and the transformative power of the waters. She is often associated with the maternal figure, capable of giving life, nurturing, and protecting her children with immense love and care.
In mythology, Iemanjá is seen as a powerful and generous goddess who governs the seas and oceans with wisdom and strength. Her role as a mother is central to her representation, as she is the protector of fishermen and those who depend on the sea for their livelihood. She is also a great healer, capable of curing physical and emotional wounds through her connection to the waters.
Physically, Iemanjá is often depicted as a majestic woman with long, loose hair or braided hair, wearing clothes that reflect the colors of the sea, such as blue, white, and silver. She is portrayed as a woman of great beauty, with a serene and welcoming expression, radiating peace and tranquility. Her presence is felt in the waves of the sea, and many turn to Iemanjá in times of difficulty, seeking her guidance and protection.