In the Andean worldview, lightning is a very important element. It serves as the messenger of the sky, announcing significant events in the lives of people.
In Hanan Pacha, people believed that the “auquis” struck with their slings, producing sparks that reached the earth.
The ray embodies the trinity, representing three distinct forces in a single phenomenon.
They call the zigzagging luminous sword “Kkjya,” the violent roar “Kkunnnnunnu,” and the flash “illapa.” Chroniclers report that for witches to exist, they needed the material and mystical imprint of lightning.
How to become an Auqui?
They become seers when struck by lightning or when they are infused with it during a storm, later specializing in the sacred.
The chroniclers also state that to become a sorcerer or sorceress, a person must be struck by lightning. If dead, be resurrected by another bolt, leaving significant physical marks and deformities—sacred signs to revere.
Family members and neighbors head to the site carrying white flags, and each person attending must bring something white.
They approach the deceased and observe:
- If the person’s eyes look to the west, the family buries them immediately without ceremony, except for the customary prayers.
- If the deceased’s eyes turn toward the east, it signifies a good omen. It indicates that the person has been chosen as an “auqui” and will protect their family.
Ceremony of Death by Lightning
When there is no Paqo for the ceremony, the oldest member of the group, assisted by the youngest, performs it. They conduct a ceremony and place various objects, such as a despacho mesa, coca leaves, and wrap them in a colorful uncuña.
Near the deceased, they open a grave and sprinkle it with liquor and chicha, asking the spirit not to neglect its family and friends. They place white flowers and more coca leaves in the grave.
They bury the deceased and place some clothing, personal belongings, and mementos on top. Then cover it with earth and place four white flags around the quadrangle, surrounded by white flowers.
Then, an instrument plays a melody while participants sing and share what remains of the liquor. Each participant places a large stone on the grave, forming a mound called Apacheta.
Singing and dancing, they move away, promising to return on the day of compadres with food, drink, and clothing. Participants must make this visit for three years to ensure the communal benefits become a lasting reality.
References:
Candia M, C. (1997) Popular Andean Medicine. Andean Books N°15.
Sanchez Macedo, M.O. (1998) Machu Picchu of the Priestesses, Witches, and Seers. Imprenta HGT S.R.Ltda.
