Portal de Periódicos da CAPES

Axé as the cornerstone of Candomblé philosophy and its significance for an understanding of well-being ( bem estar )

2024; Cambridge University Press; Linguagem: Inglês

10.1017/s0034412523001154

1469-901X

Bettina E. Schmidt,

Urban and sociocultural dynamics

Abstract According to Candomblé, axé is present in every living being and is necessary to life. To develop and maintain a sense of well-being, one must maintain a balanced level of axé which is linked to a reciprocal relationship between human beings and orixás (African deities). This article will explore the link between the spiritual force axé and well-being ( bem estar ) within Candomblé philosophy. Starting with explaining axé within the context of Candomblé and its concept of personhood, the article will reflect in the latter part on the concept of well-being from the perspective of axé and put forward an argument for the inclusion of Candomblé in philosophy of religion.