In Santeria/Lukumi, elekes are the sacred beaded necklaces given to initiates. There is an eleke for each of the Orishas, each with its own pattern of colored beads, which correspond to the colors of the Orishas. The elekes are specially prepared by a Santero/a or Babalawo, and are bestowed upon an initiate in a series of special ceremonies.

The elekes confer upon their wearer the protection and guidance of the Orishas, and are often the first step toward becoming a full initiate of the religion. There are certain restrictions involved in wearing the elekis- they are not worn during sexual activities, or in bars or nightclubs.

Pronunciation: eh-leh-keys • (noun)