Veve Sigils

Veve Sigils are used throughout the Ginean region by those who practice Vodu. Although there are many different Veve sigils that can be found in textbooks and in Vodu stores, many of these are for use to the general public. Those that may want some general protection petitions for their house or family, but aren't looking to gain greater powers. The truly powerful veve sigils as passed down through different linages of mambos.
Many of these veve sigils are used to access greater powers from the lwa, through asking for requests in a language that spirits can better understand. Most of these veve sigils are used as petitions to the lwa in order to borrow some of their powers for something they need. Practitioners often use them to help with attacks from other lwa (many who are being controlled). It is important that petitioners are consistent with communicating with lwa, as they are known to be very egotistical and often flighty. One lwa's help doesn't guarantee another. And certain lwa do not like to get involved in human's affairs.
Some Vodu practitioners have learned veve sigils that don't rely on asking requests from lwas; rather, they are known to have the power to forcefully summon lwa and can trap them within the veve. Additionally, some of these veve sigils allow practitioners to do their biddings. Using these types of veve sigils is considered very dangerous -- even by the most advanced practitioners. Doing them wrong can invoke the wrath of the lwa that was attempted to be summoned. In addition to this, the negative energy often accompanies the practitioners' requests also seeps into the lwas personalities over time. Often, this is doubled back onto the practitioners to the point that their original demands are twisted in the darkest ways possible. Using these types of veve signals are not technically illegal in most countries (save those that ban magic or spirit communication however, any actions done by lwa as the result of practitioners actions are considered punishable by law.