According to the Dicionário de Cultos Afro - Brasileiros ( Dictionary of Afro - Brazilian Religions ) , the washing of the steps of the Bonfim is closely related to a Yoruba ceremony called water of Oxalá , which involves the ritual washing of the otás ( sacred stones ) of Oxalá .
According to the Dicionario de Cultos Afro - Brasileiros ( Dictionary of Afro - Brazilian Religions ) , the washing of the steps of the Bonfim is closely related to a Yoruba ceremony called water of Oxala , which involves the ritual washing of the otas ( sacred stones ) of Oxala .