Eleguá is the Orisha of crossroads, beginnings, and communication. He is always the first Orisha invoked in any ceremony — without his permission, the path to the other Orishas is closed.
Eleguá is simultaneously a child and an old man — playful, mischievous, and unpredictable. He controls all entrances, roads, and opportunities in life. Without his blessing, nothing begins.
Eleguá has many "paths" (caminos), each with its own rhythm:
Character ranges from playful and light to sharp and commanding depending on the path being honored.
Because Eleguá opens all ceremonies, his toque is played before any other Orisha's rhythm. This is non-negotiable in orthodox Lucumí practice. After Eleguá is greeted and satisfied, the ceremony proceeds to the other Orishas in the established sequence.
Eleguá belongs to the group called the Guerreros (Warriors), along with Ogún and Ochosi. These three are often received together and their toques played in succession at the opening of a ceremony.