CW: This episode contains discussion of death, sorcery, and zombification within the context of Haitian Vodou and folklore. Listener discretion is advised.

This week, Heather leads Jeri on an exploration of Makaya, one of the most secretive and feared branches of Haitian Vodou. From its Kongo roots and powerful bokors to its infamous link with zombification, Makaya has fueled both mystery and fear. We’ll look at the spirits, stories, and the case of Clairvius Narcisse to uncover where folklore ends and reality begins.

Sources:

• Wade Davis . The Serpent and the Rainbow (1985) & Passage of Darkness: The Ethnobiology of the Haitian Zombie (1988). Classic works linking zombification to pharmacology and Haitian sorcery traditions.

• “Vodun.” MIT Pagan Resources . Overview of Vodou rites and divisions, including Makaya. MIT.edu

• “Sosyete Makaya.” Scanned document outlining Makaya traditions, secrecy, and practices. Scribd

• “Haitian Vodou Revealed.” Article on the structure of Vodou rites and societies, including Makaya’s reputation for sorcery. VisitHaiti.com

• Rock of Eye Tumblr. Q&A on Simbi Makaya and his role as a powerful sorcerer spirit in Haitian Vodou. Tumblr

• “alt.religion.orisha Google Group Discussion”. Conversations on Vodou lineages and the place of Makaya rites. Google Groups