An Introduction to Haitian Vodou

Tradition, Devotion, and Understanding Beyond the Myths

Haitian Vodou is one of the most misunderstood and misrepresented spiritual traditions in the world. Rooted in African cosmology, ancestral reverence, and lived community practice, Vodou is a rich, devotional religion shaped by history, resilience, and sacred relationship.

This short introductory course offers students the opportunity to move beyond stereotypes and sensationalism, developing a grounded and respectful understanding of Vodou’s origins, beliefs, priesthood, and ceremonial life — as taught by a senior initiated priest within the tradition.

🎟️ Course Access: £4.00
Fully online • Lifetime access • Tutor support included

Who This Course Is For

This course is designed for those who wish to learn about Haitian Vodou with respect, clarity, and cultural awareness. It is ideal for:

• Beginners seeking an informed introduction to Vodou

• Spiritual practitioners wishing to broaden their religious literacy

• Students interested in devotional traditions and ancestral religions

• Those wishing to challenge common misconceptions respectfully

• Learners on the Path of Air exploring devotional studies
  
  

No prior experience is required. This course is observational and educational in nature, rather than initiatory or practice-based.

Course Overview

Vodou is a living religion shaped by African spiritual heritage, Indigenous influences, and the historical realities of colonialism and survival. In this course, students are guided through the foundational structures of Haitian Vodou, gaining insight into its theology, spirit relationships, priesthood, and ceremonial framework.

Rather than teaching Vodou practice, this course focuses on understanding — offering students a clearer view of what Vodou is, how it functions as a religious system, and why it deserves respect as a sacred tradition. Emphasis is placed on cultural context, devotional responsibility, and accurate representation.

What You Will Learn

By the end of this course, students will:

• Understand the historical development of Haitian Vodou

• Learn about Vodou beliefs, including Bondye, the Lwa, and the Ancestors

• Recognise the importance of ancestral service and devotional relationship

• Understand the structure and levels of initiation within the priesthood

• Gain insight into the format and meaning of a typical Vodou ceremony

• Develop a more informed, respectful, and accurate understanding of Vodou
  
  

Course Structure & Modules

This introductory course is delivered through four focused lessons:

Lesson 1 — Vodou as a Syncretic Religion
Lesson 2 — God, the Ancestors & the Lwa
Lesson 3 — Initiation and the Priesthood
Lesson 4 — Order of Service and Ceremony

Each lesson is designed to build understanding gradually and thoughtfully.

Course Tutor

Bon Houngan Lampe
Guest Teacher

This course is taught by a senior initiated priest of the Night of Africa society, bringing lived experience, traditional knowledge, and devotional insight to the subject. As a guest teacher, he offers students an authentic voice from within the tradition, ensuring the material is presented with integrity, respect, and cultural accuracy.

Practical Details

🎯 Level: Beginner and beyond

🔑 Prerequisites: None

🌐 Delivery: Fully online via the Canvas learning platform

✍️ Assessments: Short written reflections and knowledge-based assignments

⏳ Coursework Load: Light — approximately 1–2 hours

🏠 House & Credits: Domus Pietatis (Devotional) — 0.5 Credits

Ready to Begin?

If you are seeking a respectful, grounded introduction to Haitian Vodou — one that replaces myth with understanding and curiosity with clarity — this course offers an accessible and thoughtful starting point.

🎟️ £4.00 · Lifetime Access