Western meteorological beliefs have long enshrined the concept of seven colors in the rainbow, intricately linking it to classical numerology.
However, there is no certainty that Quechua speakers share any of these notions.
The colors of the rainbow merge and blend in a gradual, almost ethereal manner, and one may divide them into countless categories depending on the intent behind the division.
In a meticulous survey of informants, researchers asked how many colors graced the rainbow. Each respondent provided varying frequencies and numbers.
Rainbows are essentially circles. However, the earth often hides or obstructs most of the circle, making it almost never visible. (Graham 1975:75-83 and Nussenzveig 1977)
Nevertheless, the informants agreed on two key points: rainbows are serpents, or “Amaru,“.(Casaverde Rojas 1970: 171,J.Nuñez del Prado 1970: 88 y Vallée 1972:245). It emerge from springs or water sources when rain begins.
Since the Andean rainy season lasts about six months (from November to April), these multicolored atmospheric serpents closely follow the rainy half of the annual cycle.
Additionally, rainbows are categorized as female or male, based on their colors—one being red and the other blue.
People consider red rainbows dangerous for women, as they take on this color when they last beyond sunset.
On the other hand, observers can see blue rainbows high in the sky, with their lower parts often obscured or darkened by dense clouds.
According to the informants, blue and red are the primary colors in the classification and conceptualization of rainbows.
References:
- Urton, G. (2006). En el cruce de rumbos de la tierra y el cielo. Imprenta del Centro Bartolome de Las Casas. Cusco, Perú.
