Ochosi Batá toques – Music

Ochosi is the Orisha of the hunt, justice, and the forest. He is an archer — precise, patient, and swift. He is one of the Guerreros (Warriors) alongside Eleguá and Ogún.

The Orisha

  • Domain: Hunting, archery, justice, prisons, the forest
  • Colors: Blue and yellow, or black and amber
  • Number: 3 (shared with Eleguá) or 7 (shared with Ogún, depending on lineage)
  • Symbol: Bow and arrow
  • Syncretism: San Norberto or San Huberto

Ochosi represents focused precision — the hunter who never misses. He is also closely associated with justice and the legal system. Those facing legal troubles often seek his protection.

The Toques

Ochosi often shares rhythmic space with Ogún in ceremonies, as the two Guerreros are closely paired. His primary toque is:

  • Agueré — also played for Ochosi (and sometimes other Orishas in different lineages). The rhythm has a hunting, forward-moving character — purposeful and alert.

Some houses (casas de santo) have additional toques specific to certain paths of Ochosi.

Ceremony Context

Like Eleguá and Ogún, Ochosi is among the first Orishas honored in a ceremony. He follows Ogún in the Guerrero sequence. His toque may also be played when seeking justice or guidance in legal matters.

In Afro-Cuban Dance

The Ochosi dance imitates the hunter: stalking movements, drawing a bow, releasing an arrow. The body is low, focused, precise — contrasting with the more sweeping movements of Ogún.

📝 Sources