Do You Have to Be Initiated to Practice the 21 Divisions? Understanding the Role of Spirits, Community, and Commitment
In the world of Dominican Vodou—also known as the 21 Divisions—many seekers find themselves asking: “Do I need to be initiated to serve the spirits?” The answer is both simple and layered. At Ejiogbe Institute, we believe that spiritual growth should be based on truth, integrity, and respect for lineage. This blog breaks down the real difference between serving spirits and being initiated, and helps you understand when it’s time to take the next step.
What Is the 21 Divisions?
The 21 Divisions is a lineage of Vodou practiced primarily in the Dominican Republic and northern Haiti. It includes a vast pantheon of spirits called Misterios or Lwa, organized into spiritual nations such as:
- Rada (ancestral and sweet-tempered spirits)
- Petwo (fiery and warrior spirits)
- Gede (spirits of the dead and ancestors)
These spirits walk with individuals, families, and communities. Some people are born with strong connections to them—long before any formal ritual takes place.
You Can Serve the Spirits Without Being Initiated
Yes, you can:
- Build a respectful altar to your Misterios
- Light candles and offer food, water, flowers, and perfume
- Say prayers and give thanks
- Pay attention to dreams and signs
- Keep promises made by your ancestors (even without knowing all the details)
This is your personal relationship. It is beautiful, sacred, and valid.
But Serving the Community Requires Initiation
Here’s where the difference lies:
🔹 If you begin giving readings, leading rituals, or opening yourself to public service, you are entering sacred ground that requires spiritual permission and initiatory authority.
Initiation means you’ve been accepted by the spirits, confirmed by elders, and spiritually prepared through ceremony and training.
It’s not a performance. It’s a responsibility.
Initiation means you carry the weight of tradition, and the lives of others may depend on your accuracy, energy, and alignment.
Signs That You’re Being Called
Not everyone is called to priesthood. But if you experience the following, it’s worth getting a reading:
- Frequent dreams or possessions by specific Misterios
- Unexplained illnesses or spiritual unrest
- A strong urge to help others spiritually
- Spirits asking for specific colors, animals, food, or acts of devotion
- Being told by other priests or diviners that you are “mounted” or chosen
These signs do not guarantee you need initiation—but they suggest it’s time to consult a spiritual elder.
The Ethics of Waiting
Being spiritual doesn’t mean rushing to wear beads and make videos. It means living in harmony with your spirits and knowing your limits.
If you are not initiated:
- Don’t initiate others
- Don’t perform sacrifices
- Don’t claim priesthood titles
- Don’t give false impressions of training or lineage
This is not about gatekeeping—it’s about spiritual hygiene and respect for the path.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I work with the spirits without being baptized or initiated?
A: Yes. You can light candles, offer prayers, and maintain a respectful altar. This personal service is a valid spiritual practice.
Q: What if spirits are mounting me in dreams or ceremonies?
A: This could be a sign of spiritual calling. Get a reading to confirm the meaning and next steps.
Q: Why do some people initiate and others don’t?
A: Not everyone is called to be a priest. Some are meant to serve quietly, for themselves or their families. Others are called to serve the community. It depends on destiny.
Q: Can I do readings or limpias without initiation?
A: If you have natural gifts, you may be able to help others informally. But public work, especially under the name of a spiritual tradition, requires spiritual permission and elder training.
Q: Is it wrong to wear beads or use spirit images if I’m not initiated?
A: It depends. If you do so for genuine devotion, it may be acceptable. But doing so for fashion, trend, or performance is spiritually disrespectful.
Are you wondering if you’ve been called to the 21 Divisions? Feeling confused about what your spirits want? It’s time to get real answers.
At Ejiogbe Institute, we offer private spiritual readings rooted in tradition, not trend. We’ll help you:
- Identify your Misterios
- Understand your spiritual role
- Decide if initiation is right for you
- Walk your path with clarity and honor
👉 Book a Reading or Consultation
Begin your path with guidance—not guesswork.
