In Vodoun (Voodoo) practice, Veves are intricate symbols of the Loas (gods), and are used in rituals. They are similar to the sigils used in ritual magic. Each Loa has his or her own complex veve, which is traced on the ground with powdered eggshell or a similar substance prior to a ritual. The ability to draw a Veve correctly is considered to be a particular skill of the initiate. A veve is believed to be more powerful if it is drawn with the correct details.
The picture above is the veve of the love Goddess Erzulie. Similar designs exist in Santeria and Candomble.
Curiously, the Veve is similar in cencept and design to the Hindu Kolams, talismanic designs drawn in rice flour for the Hindu deities.
Pronunciation: Vayv or vay-vay • (noun)