Alternative Religion/ Religious Resources/Glossary/Afro-caribbean

The Asson is a sacred ceremonial rattle owned by the Houngans, (priests) and Mambos (priestesses) of Vodoun. It is made from a gourd decorated with beads and snake bones. The Asson represents the Chief Loa, Damballah, and the sound mimics the serpent language of Damballa. It is used in ritual to call the Loas.

Aside from its ritual use, the asson serves as a symbol of the authority of the Houngan or Mambo. To be "given the Asson" means to be ordained a priest or priestess.

Pronunciation: ah-sahn • (noun)

Alternate Spellings: Ason

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