Editing Orisha (section)

===Ase===

''[[Ase (Yoruba)|Ase]]'' is the life-force that runs through all things, living and inanimate, and is described as the power to make things happen. It is an affirmation that is used in greetings and [[prayers]], as well as a concept of spiritual growth. Orìṣà devotees strive to obtain Ase through ''iwa-pele'', gentle and good [[Moral character|character]], and in turn they experience alignment with the ori, what others might call inner [[peace]] and satisfaction with life. Ase is divine [[energy]] that comes from Olodumare, the [[creator deity]], and is manifested through Olorun, who rules the heavens and is associated with the Sun. Without the Sun, no life could exist, just as life cannot exist without some degree of ashe. Ase is sometimes associated with [[Eshu]], the messenger orisha.<ref name="Pelton1989"/> For practitioners, ashe represents a link to the eternal presence of the supreme deity, the orishas, and the ancestors.<ref>Cynthia Duncan, Ph.D., [http://www.aboutsanteria.com/ About santeria]</ref> Rituals, prayers, songs, and sacrifices are all ways to invoke or transfer ase. In this way, every action and word becomes potentially sacred, carrying spiritual weight and consequence.<ref name=":0" />

The concept is regularly referenced in [[Capoeira|Brazilian capoeira]]. Axé in this context is used as a greeting or farewell, in songs and as a form of praise. Saying that someone "has axé" in capoeira is complimenting their energy, fighting spirit, and attitude.<ref name="MerWeb1999"/>