The Sacred Food in the Umbanda Temple "Raios de Luz"

Abstract

This article describes the observation of the preparation of ritualistic foods, known as "Food of the Saints", at the Umbanda temple Raios de Luz, in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, from the perspective of two culinary professionals. As an experience report, it falls within the field of cultural and religious studies, addressing the preparation of sacred foods as a practice that transcends the culinary realm, assuming cultural and spiritual significance. Methodologically, we employed participant observation, with systematic recording of visual and symbolic elements during immersion. The analysis connects theoretical frameworks, symbolic interpretations of rituals, and descriptions of the ritualistic context, incorporating institutional norms and traditional knowledge conveyed by the Pais de Santo — leaders responsible for the spiritual guidance of the community. The research approaches food as a cultural and spiritual artifact within the context of Afro-Brazilian religiosity.