How to Prepare an Addimú for Yemayá: A Step-by-Step Offering Guide

An addimú is a modest offering of food, fruit or sweets given to an Orisha in gratitude or petition. It is the most accessible form of devotion in Lucumí practice, and for Yemayá, the mother of the waters, it is also one of the most beautiful. If you are wondering how to begin your spiritual practice, this guide provides the necessary steps.

This guide walks through the preparation in order. Read it fully once before you gather anything, and always defer to your godparent's house customs where they differ. For further guidance on your spiritual journey, see our guide to Lucumí basics.

Step 1: How to Gather Your Materials

You will need a white or blue plate, seven pieces of fruit or a single dish Yemayá favours (watermelon, molasses, coconut, sugarcane or pork rinds), a white candle, fresh water, and a clean cloth in blue and white. Your consecrated eleke or ildé of Yemayá should be worn during the preparation. Ensuring these items are clean and specifically selected for her is vital for the integrity of your devotion.

Step 2: Prepare the Space

Clean the area around her sopera or shrine. Lay the cloth, place the plate before her, and light the candle. Speak her praise names softly: Yemayá Asesu, Yemayá Okute, Yemayá Mayelewo. Ask permission (moforibale) before proceeding. By creating a tranquil, respectful environment, you align your intent with the calm yet powerful energy of the Orisha.

Step 3: Present the Offering

Arrange the fruit or dish on the plate. If using seven items, place them in a circle to represent the cycles of the tides. Pour a little fresh water beside the plate as a gesture of purity. Tell Yemayá plainly why you are giving: gratitude, protection for a child, or finding peace during a difficult time in your life. Simplicity and sincerity are deeply respected by the Orishas.

Step 4: Timing and Removal

Leave the addimú for the number of days indicated by your godparent or by divination, typically three or seven. When the time is complete, take it to the sea, a river or the foot of a tree, and dispose of it with thanks. Never throw an offering in household rubbish, as it has been blessed through your ritual dedication.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not improvise with items Yemayá does not favour. Do not perform the offering while angry or unclean. Do not skip the request for permission. And never use tools that were not prepared for you; an unconsecrated mazo or eleke bought as a gift must first pass through your elder's hands to be properly empowered.