Veve of Papa Legba

In Vodou tradition, veves are intricate symbols drawn on the ground (usually with cornmeal or flour) to invoke the Lwa (spirits). Papa Legba's veve—featuring a cross, cane, and sometimes a dog—opens the spiritual crossroads, allowing communication between the human and spirit worlds. Legba is always saluted first in any ceremony: "Papa Legba, open the gate for me."