Amazonian Cosmovision: The beliefs of the indigenous peoples of the Peruvian jungle
In the Amazonian cosmovision of the indigenous peoples of the Peruvian jungle, the creation of the universe and the existence of different worlds with their own characteristics are considered. Supernatural beings and spirits such as the Sachamama, Bufeo Colorado, Amazonian Siren, Tunche and Chullachaqui are part of this invisible world. Balance with these beings is essential for the well-being of society
Amazonian worldview in the indigenous peoples of the Peruvian jungle
The Amazonian worldview of the indigenous peoples of the Peruvian jungle encompasses the creation of the universe and the existence of different worlds. In these worlds, there are unique topographies, diverse inhabitants and particular laws that govern their functioning.
Supernatural beings and spirits in the Amazonian worldview
Among the supernatural beings and spirits present in the Amazonian worldview, the Sachamama stands out, a gigantic boa; the Bufeo Colorado, a pink dolphin that transforms into a man; the Amazonian Mermaid, a seductive magical being; the Tunche, spirit of the dead; and the Chullachaqui, a mysterious elf that takes on various forms.
Importance of maintaining balance with invisible beings
The inhabitants of the Peruvian lowland jungle consider it crucial to maintain a harmonious balance with invisible beings. To achieve this, they resort to access through dreams and the ingestion of sacred plants such as ayahuasca, thus allowing a deep connection with these beings and spirits.
Connecting with ancestors and visions through sacred places
The indigenous peoples of the Peruvian jungle find in sacred places such as waterfalls, river headwaters and ancestral trees the possibility of connecting with their ancestors and receiving visions. These sites are considered spaces of great spiritual importance, where one can access the wisdom of past generations and receive guidance for the present.
The connection with ancestors through these sacred places is made through ancestral rituals and practices passed down from generation to generation. It is in these natural spaces where it is believed that messages from the past and the spiritual world can be received, thus guiding the path of indigenous communities in the Amazon rainforest.
Oral transmission of beliefs and practices in Amazonian cultures
Amazonian cultures have a rich tradition of transmitting their beliefs and practices from generation to generation through oral tradition. The wise men and elders of the community are responsible for sharing this ancestral knowledge with the new generations, using stories, myths and legends to teach about the Amazonian worldview.
- The oral transmission of these beliefs is essential to preserve the cultural identity of the indigenous peoples of the Peruvian jungle.
- The stories told by the elders not only convey knowledge about the universe and supernatural beings, but also teach values, norms and traditions that guide community life.
- Orality is a powerful means of keeping the collective memory of these cultures alive, allowing future generations to remain connected to their past and roots.
This form of knowledge transmission is valued and respected in Amazonian communities, as it recognizes the wisdom and authority of those who possess the gift of telling sacred stories and keeping the worldview of their ancestors alive.
