ELEGUA is the Orisha of crossroads, doorways, and gates. He is the messenger of the gods- no Orisha can be contacted except through him, and his dress and conflicting mannerisms reflect this double-sided nature (he is sometimes depicted with two faces, especially in Yoruban art). Elegua is also the guardian of the doorway between the earthly and divine realms. He has been compared to the Greek God Hermes, with whom he shares many attributes, and to the Hindu Ganesha. In Brazil, he is sometimes equated with Baphomet, and his symbol is a pitchfork. In Santeria, his colors are black and red, and he is associated with St. Martin de Porres.

Of all the Orishas, he has the most aspects (forms), including Pombagira (Candomble), a wantonly sexual prostitute, and Papa Legba (Vodoun) an elderly man. He is considered a trickster, a player of pranks; in some traditions he is malefic, bringing harm to those who neglect their obligations. In Lukumi, he is a guardian of doorways, and effigies of Elegua are used to protect homes.
His number is 3.