The Orisha (spirits) in Santería represent the natural forces of the world that can manifest the elements of Olódùmarè (God).
In Voudoun the Loa (spirits) are intermediaries between Bondye (God) and humanity.

The Orisha / Loa embody the characteristics / behaviours that the human subject can comprehend. There are some similairities concerning the names, behaviours and elements of the spirits. For example, Eleggua (Santería) / Papa Legba (Voudoun) is the guardian of the crossroads.

Santería consists of the beliefs of the Yoruba while Voudoun consists of the beliefs of the Fon & Ewe. However, Candomblé embodies both belief systems as well as those of the Bantu and Igbo peoples.