Cosmic Forces and the Divine Energy: The World of the Lwa and the Presence of the Spirit in the World

This presentation explores divine energy and presence through the Lwa (S/spirits) in Vodou and the Holy Spirit in Christianity, focusing on their roles, interactions, and manifestations. I introduce "Vodou-Spirit hermeneutics" to analyze spirit possession, the embodiment of the Lwa, and the anointed Vodou community. Examining Vodou songs and prayers, I draw parallels to Christian pneumatology, employing Craig Keener’s Spirit Hermeneutics and The Mind of the Spirit, along with Veli-Matti Kärkkäinen's concept of plural pneumatology. I propose a "Multi-Spirit Cosmology" and "Pneumatological plural experiences" to further this analysis. The study also questions whether the Lwa align with the divine attributes of the Christian God, referencing Karl Rahner’s theological framework. Finally, a comparative study highlights differences in ontology, power, and authority between the Holy Spirit and the Lwa, examining their cosmic significance and their impact on believers in both traditions.