(From Funk & Wagnalls
Standard Dictionary of
Folklore,
Mythology, And
Legend)
Damballah is the powerful serpent deity of the Rada pantheon of Haitian vodun gods. This being is much beloved by the Haitians, but is held greatly in awe. He is identified, by the process of syncretism, with St. Patrick, and is especially worshipped on Thursdays. He forms the rainbow which is regarded as an arc d'alliance between him and Aida Wedo (Ayida Ouedo?), his wife.