Open & Closed Practices

The question of which deities we can or should work with is an important one, and it highlights the need for cultural respect and understanding in spiritual practices. As modern spirituality grows more eclectic, navigating the line between inspiration and appropriation becomes crucial. Let’s explore why some deities, like Hecate and Lilith, are often seen as more accessible, while others, like Yoruba Orishas, require a deeper understanding of lineage and cultural protocols.

1. Cultural Accessibility vs. Cultural Appropriation

Hecate and Lilith: Universally Recognized Archetypes

Hecate: Originating from ancient Greek mythology, Hecate is a Goddess of magic, crossroads, and liminality. Her presence in Western philosophy, literature, and spiritual traditions has made her a well-known figure across cultures. Over centuries, her archetypal role has transcended Greek religious practices, allowing many modern practitioners to engage with her energy while respecting her origins.
Lilith: Emerging from Mesopotamian and Judaic traditions, Lilith has evolved into a symbol of feminine independence, rebellion, and power. Today, she is often embraced by feminist movements and spiritual communities as a representation of untamed, empowered femininity. While her roots are tied to specific traditions, her archetype resonates universally.

Both Hecate and Lilith have been integrated into broader cultural frameworks, making their stories and energies more accessible. However, it’s essential to acknowledge their origins and avoid oversimplifying their roles or meanings.

Yoruba Orishas and Other Cultural Deities: Living Traditions

Deities like the Orishas of Yoruba spirituality belong to active, living religions such as Ifá, Santería, and Candomblé. These are not mythologies but vibrant, sacred traditions passed down through initiations and rituals. Approaching these deities without proper lineage, training, or guidance can be seen as appropriative for several reasons:

It removes the deities from their cultural and religious contexts.
It disrespects the practitioners who have preserved these traditions despite colonization and oppression.
These religions are often tied to marginalized communities that have faced exploitation, making cultural sensitivity essential.

2. Open vs. Closed Practices

One way to understand the difference is by recognizing the concepts of “open” and “closed” practices:

Open Practices: Mythologies like Greek, Roman, Norse, and Celtic traditions are considered “open” because they are no longer tied to active religious systems. While respect and education are still vital, these traditions are often viewed as shared cultural heritage, allowing more freedom for personal interpretation.
Closed Practices: Religions such as Yoruba, Indigenous spiritualities, and some branches of Hinduism remain active and require initiation or guidance from recognized practitioners. These systems have specific rituals, ceremonies, and teachings that are sacred to their communities. Engaging without permission or proper training risks disrespecting the integrity of these practices.

3. Archetypes vs. Deities

Another key distinction lies in the difference between working with archetypes and engaging with specific deities:

Archetypes: Some Goddesses, like Hecate and Lilith, represent universal energies or themes—such as the Maiden, the Mother, the Crone, or the Wild Feminine. These archetypes resonate across cultures, allowing individuals to connect with their symbolism on a personal level.
Deities as Entities: Orishas and other deities from closed practices are not just archetypes but distinct spiritual entities with unique rituals, prayers, and songs. Engaging with them requires a relationship built through the appropriate channels, often involving initiation or mentorship.

4. How to Honor Without Appropriating

If you feel drawn to deities from closed traditions, here are some respectful ways to explore your interest:

Learn with Respect

Take the time to research the tradition’s history, cultural context, and the meaning of the deities within their original framework. This is an act of honoring the culture and its people.

Seek Guidance from Practitioners

If your interest deepens, connect with initiated practitioners who can teach you about the tradition in a way that respects its sacred boundaries.

Focus on Universal Energies

If you are not part of a closed tradition, consider working with universal themes like the Divine Feminine or archetypes rather than invoking specific deities. This allows you to connect with the energy without appropriating sacred practices.

Support the Community

Consider supporting organizations, practitioners, or artists from the traditions you are drawn to. This helps preserve and celebrate the culture rather than exploit it.

5. Practical Steps for Respectful Spiritual Practice

Understand the Origin: Before working with a deity, learn about their cultural and historical background.
Acknowledge Your Role: Reflect on your spiritual lineage and whether it aligns with the deity you wish to work with.
Avoid Generalizations: Be mindful not to oversimplify or reduce a complex tradition to something it’s not.
Stay Humble: Approach all spiritual practices with reverence, humility, and a willingness to learn.

The Bottom Line

Hecate and Lilith are often accessible in modern spiritual practices because their stories have been integrated into universal archetypes. In contrast, deities like the Yoruba Orishas are deeply rooted in sacred, living traditions that require respect, education, and often initiation to approach. The key to working with any deity—open or closed—is reverence, cultural awareness, and a commitment to honoring their origins.

By approaching your practice thoughtfully, you can create a meaningful connection with the divine while respecting the rich cultural traditions that have shaped these deities’ stories.