Sacred Mountains and Andean Cosmologies: A Journey to the Heart of Magical Thinking

Andean Religious Magical Thought: A Journey to the Depths of the Andean Universe and its Deities

The Andean worldview, deeply connected with the natural and spiritual environment, reveals a complex structure of beliefs, rituals and relationships with the divine. From the high peaks to the deepest valleys, the Andean peoples have forged a unique connection with the cosmos, in which nature, mountains and spirits play a fundamental role. In this blog we will explore the main elements that make up this vast and fascinating religious thought.

The Andean Universe: Three Interconnected Worlds

In the Andean worldview, the universe is divided into three worlds that interact and complement each other, forming a sacred structure. Each of these worlds has its own characteristics and meanings, and all together constitute the cosmic order:

Hanaqpacha: The Heavenly and Divine World

Hanaqpacha is the higher kingdom, a place of purity, abundance and transcendence. In this world are the most sacred entities: God, the Virgin, the saints and the benevolent spirits. It is a space of peace and harmony where human beings aspire to arrive after death. This world is synonymous with light and perfection, and represents the direct connection with the divine.

Kaypacha: The World of Living Beings

Kaypacha is the world in which we live, a space full of materiality and living beings. It is inhabited by the Pachamama, the apus, the animals and the human beings. It is a place of constant interaction, in which everything is connected by natural elements: earth, air, water. This world is linked to the other two (Hanaqpacha and Ukhupacha) through special geographical spaces, such as caves or canyons, which serve as portals between dimensions.

Ukhupacha: The Lower World

Ukhupacha, the underground world, is the kingdom of the unknown. Although little is known about it, it is associated with mystery, darkness and death. In times of conquest, Ukhupacha was identified with hell, although in the Andean tradition it has a much more complex connotation, linked to regeneration and rebirth, because life arises from its bowels.

Human Nature in the Andean Cosmovision

In the Andean world, human existence is defined by three essential and interconnected elements: the body, the spirit and the soul, which is the vital force that animates every being. This concept highlights the holistic relationship between the individual and the cosmos, where physical, emotional and spiritual well-being depends on balance with the environment.

The Apus: Sacred Guardians of the Mountains

One of the most fascinating aspects of Andean religiosity are the apus, spirits that inhabit the mountains. These beings are considered guardians and protectors of the peoples that inhabit their vicinity. Each apu has its own hierarchy, and among the most important are:

Apu Roal and Pachamama: The Sacred Protectors

At the top of the hierarchy is the Apu Roal (also known as Ruaq), who is the supreme spirit of the mountains, in charge of maintaining the cosmic order. Together with him, the Pachamama, mother earth, plays a fundamental role, representing the feminine nature, generous and giving life. The relationship with these apus is of deep respect and devotion, because those who honor them receive protection and prosperity.

The Role of Animals in Andean Religiosity

Animals, especially those that inhabit the mountains, have a direct connection with the apus. The condor, for example, is considered the emissary of the Apu, while the toad represents the Pachamama. These animals are not only symbols, but are believed to act as messengers between humans and apus.

Rites and Offerings: Honoring the Apus

The rituals in honor of the apus are essential in the daily life of the Andean peoples. The altomisayuq (wise or shamans) are in charge of performing ceremonies to ask for protection, fertility and well-being. These offerings, known as dispatches or payments, are made mainly in the months of February and August, key moments for agricultural cycles.

The Apu Salkantay: The Sacred Mountain

One of the most revered apus in the Andes is the Salkantay, a majestic mountain located in the Vilcabamba Cordillera, considered an emblem of Andean spirituality. Salkantay is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of the connection between humans and the natural forces that govern the world. The ceremonies that are held in his honor, such as the offerings and celebrations of the agricultural cycle, reinforce the cultural identity of the peoples that surround him.

The influence of Salkantay extends beyond spirituality, since it is a mountain with strong historical symbolism. In ancient times, communities paid tribute to the mountain with rituals dedicated to ensuring the success of the harvests and the prosperity of the herds of llamas and alpacas.

Ausangate and Pachatusan: Other Apus of Power

Ausangate and Pachatusan are other fundamental apus in the Cusco region. Ausangate, with its 6,271 meters above sea level, is a pilgrimage center for thousands of people seeking the protection and blessings of the apu. The cult of Ausangate has remained intact over the centuries, and today it remains one of the main deities in the region.

For its part, Pachatusan is known as the “Puntal of the Earth” and is considered the principle that supports the three worlds: space, time and eternity. This apu is revered by nearby communities, who still perform rituals to ask permission before performing any important activity, either a trip or the beginning of sowing.

The Cult of the Apus: From the Pre-Inca to the Present

The cult of the apus has deep roots that date back to the first Andean peoples, long before the Inca Empire. Although the cult was institutionalized during the Tahuantinsuyo, beliefs about the apus have endured through the centuries, merging with the Catholic religion in some cases, but maintaining its Andean essence. The apus continue to be a fundamental part of the daily life of the inhabitants of the Andes, who continue to honor them with rituals, offerings and prayers.

Man’s Relationship with Nature

The Andean worldview invites us to reflect on the deep relationship between human beings and nature. The apus, as guardians of the mountains and the earth, teach us about respect, reciprocity and harmony with the natural world. In a modern context of growing concern for climate change and the destruction of ecosystems, the teachings of Andean peoples continue to be a beacon of wisdom on how to live in balance with our environment.

By honoring and respecting the apus, Andean communities not only seek protection, but also a life full of gratitude and respect for the elements that support us. In a world increasingly disconnected from nature, perhaps we can learn something about the Andean worldview and find a path towards sustainability and balance.