Maria Navalha: Spiritual entity of courage and protection

Maria Navalha is a spiritual entity worshipped within various branches of African-matrix religions, specifically in traditions such as Umbanda and Quimbanda. She is characterized by her strength, irreverence, and courage, often representing a feminine force that rejects submission and values autonomy.

In spiritual practice, her name refers to the razor, a symbol used to represent the cutting of negative energies, harmful relationships, and illusions. She is associated with 'malandragem,' which in this religious context signifies the intelligence and agility needed to navigate life's challenges and find solutions when paths seem closed. While her specific characteristics may vary depending on the spiritual house or tradition, she is widely recognized as a figure of protection, freedom, and self-esteem.