With its high mountain peaks and tall, powerful waves, it is easy to imagine how the island of Puerto Rico became associated with the gods by its indigenous inhabitants. Prior to European colonization, the Taino had a robust belief system, which has been revitalized in some ways by Taino resurgence movements. While Taino mythology is intricate and complex, there are some basic important beliefs.
Zemis
Zemis were a crucial aspect of Taino mythology, according to ThoughtCo. The term “zemi” refers to both a spirit or god and the physical representation of that spirit or god. Often, zemis were related to ancestor worship, and were decorated with a variety of human and animal symbols. Zemis were believed to possess divine or supernatural powers, and were an important part of religious ceremonies. According to Smarthistory, zemis were often made with a small bowl on the top for snuffing cohoba, a hallucinogen that was used in Taino spiritual ceremonies.
While most zemis were localized, the spirits of nature or the ancestors, some zemis were known across the Taino. A popular zemi was Atabey, the spirit of the Earth, according to American Indian Magazine. One manifestation of Atabey was Guabancex, the spirit of the violent aspects of wind and rain, and the hurakan (hurricane) was the expression of her fury.
Another important zemi was Yúcahu, who represented peace, agriculture, fertility and goodness, and was the protector of the island of Puerto Rico and its inhabitants, according to the National Forest Foundation. Yúcahu resided at the peak of El Yunque, which was known as “Yuke” meaning “white lands” in reference to the thick clouds around the peak.
Cohoba Rituals
Cohoba rituals were an important part of the Taino belief system because it was believed that the use of cohoba allowed people to interact with zemis and the supernatural world. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, cohoba was a hallucinogenic snuff made from the seeds of the Piptadenia peregrina tree.
The ritual of consuming cohoba was usually restricted to spiritual healers and caciques (rulers), according to Smarthistory. In preparation for the cohoba ritual, participants would cleanse themselves through fasting and inducing vomiting. The Taino made a variety of spoons, spatulas, sticks, tubes and bowls to aid in the consumption of cohoba. Occasionally, crushed seashells or tobacco were added to cohoba to enhance the hallucinogenic effects.
While under the effects of cohoba, participants would believe to have interactions with zemis that would provide them with special knowledge. Often, the knowledge that was seeked through these ceremonies was the cause and treatment for certain illnesses or ailments.
The beliefs of the Taino people were very much influenced by the world around them, and the beautiful natural landscapes of Puerto Rico and other islands throughout the Caribbean still reflect that sense of awe and divinity. When you visit Puerto Rico, you can still see many aspects of Taino mythology, from Taino historical sites to the natural landscapes that were homes to the zemis.
Whether you would like to explore the spiritual places of the Taino people or find peace in relaxing by the ocean, book your stay with Maria’s. When you’re ready to stay with us, booking is done through Twin Palms, Maria’s rental, and onsite management. Please visit our booking page on this website to view the availability of Maria’s and fill out our convenient contact form. If you have any additional questions regarding Maria’s, you may call Elizabeth at 787-685-6648 (español: Cristina at 787-449-3673).
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