The main chakana correspondences between hanaq pacha and kay pacha are multiple meteorological phenomena. The peaks of the snow-capped mountains and some animals are intermediaries.
The lightning is the most visible and concrete connection between hanaq pacha and kay pacha. But at the same time, it is the most feared. Almost all the paqos were initiated in their role by lightning; those who were struck by lightning but survived.
The clouds (phuyus) are closely related to rain (para; poqoy), which symbolizes the fertilization of Pachamama (all feminine elements). It embodies a dual nature: ephemeral and sublime.
The need (pacha-phuyu: cloud of the earth) serves the same function as the clouds, but in the lower region.
The most symbolically significant meteorological phenomenon is undoubtedly the rainbow (k’uychi), an integral bridge of the entire spectrum of colors. It has been considered a symbol of Tawantinsuyu on the flag of Cusco.
It is a transversal symbol of cosmic relationship; in the Bible, it appears as the visible sign of the covenant between heaven and earth (Gen 9, 12-17).
Especially the high snow-capped mountains (rit’isqa), because of their white color and the origin of rivers (mayu), symbolize the transitional points where the two cosmic strata meet
.
Some animals are the protectors of livestock and the pairs of Pachamama.
The condor (kuntur) is a “royal” bird for the runa (people); it is the messenger (Hermes) and plays a significant role in the journey of souls after death.
The vicuña, the alpaca, the fox, the skunk, and the deer, due to their proximity to the apus, have a “sacred” function as chakana.
Reference:
- Esternmann, J. (1998) Filosofía Andina. Estudio intercultural de la sabiduría autóctona andina. Seminario San Antonio Abad, Cusco Perú, (pag. 168 – 170)
