South American mythology is rich and diverse, with stories and legends that provide insight into the beliefs and values of the indigenous people of South America 1. Here are some of the most important myths:
These myths and legends continue to be an important part of South American culture and are often passed down from generation to generation 1.
Brazilian mythology is a vibrant blend of indigenous, African, and Portuguese influences, with a myriad of captivating creatures and tales 1. Here are two of the most significant myths:
Boi-Bumbá 2: This legend revolves around a slave couple, Pai Francisco and Mãe Catarina 2. Pregnant Catarina craved beef tongue, leading her husband to slaughter his master’s favorite ox 2. When the owner discovered this, he summoned healers and shamans to resurrect the ox 2. The ox’s resurrection was celebrated with a grand party, and the owner forgave Francisco and Catarina 2. This folklore is celebrated annually with large parties, particularly in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil 2.
Boto Cor-de-Rosa 2 : This legend involves the Amazon River dolphin, a unique creature that transforms from grey to pink as it ages 2. In Brazilian folklore, the Boto Cor-de-Rosa is a magical creature that can take the form of a handsome man at night 2. In its human form, Boto seduces village girls to the bottom of the river to impregnate them 2. This legend reflects the rich biodiversity of the Amazon and the mystical qualities attributed to its creatures 2.
Peruvian mythology is a fascinating blend of Inca, pre-Inca, and Spanish influences, with a rich tapestry of gods, spirits, and supernatural creatures 1. Here are two of the most important myths:
The Legend of the Enchanted Bull 1 2 : This legend originates from the beautiful Razuhuillca lagoon, located in Huanta, Ayacucho 2. The story tells of a large and violent black bull that lived in the lagoon and would occasionally emerge, causing destruction and flooding 2. To stop the bull, an old woman sacrificed herself by trapping the bull in a magical cage at the bottom of the lake 2. However, the bull managed to escape one day, causing a flood 2. Since then, the villagers have lived in constant vigilance, ensuring the enchanted bull does not cause another flood 2.
The Chullachaqui 2 : This is a popular legend from the Peruvian Amazon 2. The Chullachaqui is a demonized being with the ability to imitate the physical appearance of any close friend or relative of its victims 2. It deceives its victims into following it deeper into the forest, where it abandons them to die 2. The Chullachaqui is described as an old dwarf with a sinister face covered in wrinkles 2. It leaves two completely different footprints on the ground: one human, and the other similar to that of an animal 2.
Umbanda is a Brazilian religion that combines elements of Candomblé, Spiritism, and Christianity 1 2 . It’s a syncretic faith that believes in a Supreme God, various deities, and a large number of intermediary spirits 1 2 . Here are two significant aspects:
The Founding of Umbanda 2 : The founding of Umbanda is attributed to Zélio Fernandino de Moras, who, after a mysterious paralysis and recovery, was visited by a spirit known as Caboclo of the Seven Crossroads 2. This spirit declared the formation of a new religion that would allow the spirits of blacks and indigenous people to pass on their messages 2. This event, which took place on November 15, 1908, is considered the official founding date of Umbanda 2. However, many followers believe that Umbanda existed long before this date 2.
The Role of Orixás 1 : In Umbanda, practitioners honor a supreme creator god, Olorun, as well as orixás and other spirits 1. Orixás are deities or divinities in African religions, and they play a significant role in Umbanda 1. They are considered powerful beings that control the forces of nature and the endeavors of humanity 1. Each orixá represents a specific force of nature and is associated with certain foods, colors, animals, and days of the week 1.