Wak'a: An Andean Religious Concept in Aymara Social and Political Life

A central tenet of this thesis is to challenge the prevailing scholarly tendency to equate the Andean concept of 'huaca' with the 'sacred.' Astvaldsson critically examines how leading Andeanists have historically interpreted 'huaca' through the lens of the sacred, citing works by scholars like Duviols and Rostworowski. To provide a robust counter-argument, the thesis undertakes a thorough examination of the meaning and usage of 'huaca' as it appears in colonial literature. This analysis is juxtaposed with an in-depth exploration of the concept of the sacred within both the Judeo-Christian tradition and established sociological and anthropological theories. By dissecting these different frameworks, the thesis aims to demonstrate the incompatibility of the 'huaca' concept with predominant definitions of the sacred, paving the way for a more nuanced understanding of Andean religious thought.

To ground the theoretical discussions in empirical reality, the thesis shifts its focus to the socio-political structures of the Jesus de Machaca region in Highland Bolivia. This area serves as a primary case study for understanding the practical application and cultural significance of the 'wak'a' concept. The research delves into the inter-communal and intra-communal dynamics of this region, examining the historical background and the intricate socio-political organization that characterizes it. Special attention is given to the maximal ayllu of Jesus de Machaca, exploring its traditional structures, historical evolution, and spatial organization. The influence of the Inca conquest and subsequent historical developments are also considered, providing a comprehensive understanding of the context in which Aymara religious and social practices are embedded. The analysis includes an examination of land purchases, the roles of caciques, and the oral traditions that shape the community's identity.

This chapter delves into the specific deities and powerful beings that populate the Aymara religious landscape, with a particular focus on the 'wak'a achachila.' The research presents detailed descriptions of various wak'a, including Turiturini, T'ukuri, Salla, and Plazuela, exploring their visual and textural qualities, associated imagery, and the narratives surrounding them. The thesis examines how these beings are understood in relation to historical events, geographical features, and aspects of daily life, such as marriage and fertility. The connection between these deities and ancestral figures, as well as their role in warfare and economic activities, is explored. The chapter also discusses the 'Achila' and 'santa Isabel Titiri,' further enriching the understanding of the diverse pantheon and the symbolic character of the relationship between communities and these powerful entities. The individuality and characteristics of the powers of the wak'a achachila are underscored.

This section of the thesis explores the methods through which Aymara communities communicate with the 'wak'a achachila' and other deities. It details various means of communication, including the practice of 'reading' coca leaves and the performance of ritual offerings, often involving the 'naming' of deities. The concept of a reciprocal relationship between humans and deities is central, with terms like 'ley wak'a,' 'ch'amani,' and 'munaiiani' being analyzed to understand the dynamics of this exchange. The thesis argues that reciprocity is intrinsically linked to power, and that these interactions are crucial for maintaining balance and ensuring the well-being of the community. The chapter concludes by reflecting on continuity and change within these practices and reiterating the profound meaning of 'wak'a [achachila]' within the Aymara worldview.