Ekeko

What it is

The Ekeko, also known as Iqiqu, is a deity of abundance and prosperity in the mythology of the Aymara people. He originates from the Tiwanakan civilization of the Andean high plateau. The figure is widely recognized as a bringer of good luck and material wealth. In modern practice, he serves as the main focus of the Alasitas fair, a cultural event dedicated to invoking his blessings for the coming year.

Where it comes from

Scholars trace the Ekeko to pre-Columbian times. Anthropomorphic figures with humps were found in La Paz, Oruro, and Potosí, made from basalt and andesite. Some researchers link these to Inca predecessors, while others see them as remnants of summer solstice festivities. Arthur Posnansky noted that near December 22, Tiwanaku populations worshipped deities using miniatures of desired goods. A legend from 1781 describes how a statue protected a woman during a siege by providing food, cementing its role as a provider of abundance.

How it is done

Worshippers place small statues of the Ekeko in honored spots within their homes. To activate his power, they offer items clipped to the figurine. Banknotes are attached to represent monetary wealth. Grain is placed on the figure to ensure good harvests. In some traditions, a lit cigarette is inserted into a hole in the statue's mouth to please the deity. This annual offering is believed to secure a full year of prosperity and comfort.

Tools and materials

The primary tool is a miniature statue of the Ekeko, often depicting a man with a mustache wearing a poncho. He is loaded with bags, baskets, household objects, and currency. Modern versions may include a circular opening in the mouth for cigarettes. These statuettes can be displayed at home or worn as amulets on key rings or necklaces. Offerings include real banknotes, grain, and tobacco.

What it is for

The Ekeko is invoked to bring monetary wealth, good harvests, and general prosperity. People seek his favor to ensure a comfortable life filled with the things they need and want. The offerings act as a request for his services. By providing him with symbolic items, worshippers hope to receive the actual goods in their lives during the coming year.

Who does it

The practice is primarily carried out by households in the western regions of Bolivia and parts of Peru. Ordinary people maintain the statues in their homes, placing them in positions of honor. There is no specialized priesthood mentioned; the tradition is part of popular culture and folk belief among the Aymara community.

Peoples and places

The Ekeko is central to the Aymara people of the Altiplano. The festival of Alasitas takes place annually on January 24 in La Paz, Bolivia. In Peru, the celebration occurs on May 3 in the city of Puno on Machallata hill. Other regions hold similar festivals in October, known as Calvario. The tradition reflects the indigenous worldview of the Andean highlands.

What people believe

The Ekeko is viewed as a guardian of fortune who responds to offerings. The belief holds that by satisfying the deity with symbolic representations of wealth, he will provide the real items. This stems from ancient practices of offering miniatures to ask for good luck. The deity is seen as a benevolent force that ensures the household has enough food, money, and comfort.

When it is done

The main celebration is the Alasitas fair, held every January 24 in La Paz. In Puno, Peru, the festival is celebrated on May 3. Another regional observance called Calvario takes place in October. These dates align with traditional cycles of worship and community gathering to renew the bond between the people and the deity of abundance.

Questions people ask about Ekeko

Good reading and sources

• BBC NEWS | AmericasBBC, Article

• Ekeko on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data