Zangbeto

Zangbeto is the guardian of the night. He protects the villagers from theft, solves domestic disputes, and organizes community service. I have witnessed the presence of Zangbeto in all of these affairs. He also provides entertainment during ceremonies. He dances by spinning around fast, shrinking and growing in height as he turns. I have also witnessed this many times. 

There are many reports of the Zangbeto's public display of power. Zangbeto drives motorcycles, crosses rivers by walking on water, and transforms buckets of water into palm wine. Zangbeto can also become very tiny and dance inside of a bottle. I have not had the fortune of seeing any of these spectacles myself.

Although Zangbeto does make appearances during the day, his main work takes place at night. He moves through the narrow winding paths of the village in total darkness. He is followed by a group of drummers and makes an eery humming noise to announce his arrival. At night his power is great and he must not be seen by anyone who is not an initiate of his group.


Only men can join the group of Zangbeto. All men of the village are forced to join. Children and women (and men who refuse to join) fear Zangbeto. They know that the affairs of Zangbeto do not include them and they in turn avoid all contact. While I was visiting the village, the neighborhood Zangbeto came over to the house to offer me his blessing.