A young Cuban, practitioner of Santeria, has generated debate on social networks after sharing a video on her TikTok @yansa_teresa_ where he criticizes the high prices that some santeros charge in the United States for performing religious ceremonies.
In her publication, the woman called these practices an “abuse” and highlighted that, despite the increase in costs, the values of Santeria must remain rooted in humility and accessibility.
In the video, the young woman explained that, although she lives in the United States, the ceremonies she performs take place in Cuba, where the costs are significantly lower.
“The saints that I make are not made here in the United States, I make them in Cuba. But while many people charge 10 thousand dollars, I am not even remotely close to that price.”he pointed out.
According to Santera, charging exorbitant prices contradicts the basic principle of Santeria, which should be a practice guided by humility and service.
The young woman also took the opportunity to send a direct message to other santeros operating in the United States: “Learn that the saint is humility and that it is done with the minimum. It is true that things have gone up, but not for the prices they are charging”.
His words have resonated with followers and practitioners, sparking debate about how Santeria, a practice with deep spiritual and cultural roots, could be affected by excessive commercialization.
The video has generated a variety of opinions on TikTok. Some users applauded his stance, calling it a necessary reminder about the essential values of Santeria.
“Absolutely right, spirituality should not be a business”commented one follower. However, others noted that the elevated costs also reflect rising prices for materials and the logistics needed to hold ceremonies in the United States.
The publication highlights the growing debate among Santeria practitioners about how to balance spirituality with economic realities, especially for those living in the Cuban diaspora.
While some defend high prices as a necessity in the American context, others, like this young woman, advocate preserving the principles of humility and accessibility that are fundamental in religion.
These types of reflections remain relevant in a community that struggles to keep its culture and spirituality alive in an environment where costs and economic dynamics can distort its essence.
Frequently asked questions about the costs of Santeria in the United States
Why are the prices of Santeria ceremonies in the United States considered abusive?
The prices are considered abusive because some ceremonies reach up to 10 thousand dollars, which contradicts the principles of humility and accessibility of Santeria.
What are the essential values that should guide the practice of Santeria?
According to the Cuban santera, The essential values of Santeria are humility and servicewhich must prevail over economic profit.
How does the commercialization of Santeria affect its traditional practice?
Excessive commercialization can distort the essence of Santeria, distancing it from its cultural and spiritual roots, and transforming it into a lucrative business rather than an accessible spiritual practice.
Why do some santeros defend the high prices of ceremonies in the US?
Some justify the high prices due to the increased costs in materials and logistics in the United States, where the economic context is different from that of Cuba.
