Elegba (Legba, Esu, or Eshu) is the messenger god who presides over crossroads, doorways, and transformation. He is a protective, benevolent spirit who serves Ifa, the chief god, as a messenger between heaven and Earth. Elegba also stands for change and uncertainty.
Story of Elegba Elegba is a trickster who is unpredictable, sly, and fond of pranks. He became a messenger god because he tricked the High God, who was then living on Earth. Due to his tricks, the High God decided to reside in the heavens and ordered Elegba to fly to him through the sky every night and report everything that happened back on Earth. Because of his trickster characteristics, he is often paired with Ifa, the God of Order.