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.
Afrobrasiilia religioonide sõnaraamat „Dicionário de Cultos Afro - Brasileiros ” ütleb, et Bonfimi kiriku treppide pesemine on tihedalt seotud joruba tseremooniaga„ Oxalá vesi ”, mis kujutab endast Oxalá pühade kivide otá’de rituaalset pesemist.