The Sacred medicines and divine protection are integral components of the Kongo Figure peoples' (Democratic Republic of Congo) religious beliefs. At the core of their belief system is Ne Kongo Figure, the great deity, who embodies their faith. According to their teachings, Ne Kongo Figure descended from the heavens and brought with him the first nkisi, a sacred medicine that was contained in an earthenware vessel placed upon three stones or termite mounds. Essentially, nkisi serves as a "spirit" and is an essential part of their belief system.