Pillan

What it is

The Pillan are respected male spirits within Mapuche mythology. They hold significant power over the natural world and human fate. While generally considered benevolent, they possess the ability to inflict harm. They may punish communities with droughts, floods, earthquakes, or diseases. The Antü stands as the most powerful among them, governing all other Pillan spirits. These beings inhabit either the spiritual realm known as Wenumapu or reside inside active volcanoes on Earth. Their presence is felt through both life-giving gifts and destructive forces.

Where it comes from

The term originates from the Mapudungun language. Within Mapuche tradition, these spirits are deeply embedded in their cosmological understanding. A man who strictly follows the laws of the admapu may become a Pillan after death. This path connects moral conduct with spiritual elevation. The spirits are part of the broader Native American religious framework practiced by the Mapuche people in Chile.

How it is done

The Mapuche perform a specific ceremony called ngillatun for the Pillan. This ritual serves to thank the spirits for their gifts. It also aims to secure future benefits for the community. Practitioners engage with these entities through established traditional practices. The focus remains on maintaining balance and reciprocity with the spiritual forces.

What it is for

The ngillatun ceremony seeks to obtain benefits for the people. It also expresses gratitude for previous gifts from the spirits. The Pillan can cause disasters if displeased. They may allow the wekufe to bring punishment. Droughts, floods, and earthquakes serve as warnings. Diseases may also be sent as retribution. The purpose is to maintain harmony and avoid these negative outcomes.

Who does it

Shamans and community leaders conduct the ngillatun. They act as intermediaries between the people and the Pillan. The text does not specify gender restrictions for becoming a Pillan, but notes that men following admapu laws can achieve this status. The practice requires knowledge of traditional laws and ceremonial protocols.

Peoples and places

The Pillan are central to Mapuche spirituality in Chile. The Mapuche people recognize their power and respect their authority. Female counterparts are known as Wangulen spirits. The name has also been adopted for modern uses, such as naming a two-seat trainer aircraft by Chilean ENAER. This shows the enduring cultural significance of the term beyond strict religious contexts.

What people believe

The Pillan inhabit Wenumapu, a spiritual world associated with good. Those remaining on Earth live inside volcanoes like Osorno and Quetrupillán. They control natural phenomena. The Antü rules over them. Punishment comes through natural disasters or disease. The wekufe may assist in delivering these punishments. Following the admapu allows humans to join them after death.

When it is done

The ngillatun ceremony is performed for the Pillan. It occurs during specific times when the community seeks benefits or offers thanks. The exact timing depends on traditional calendars and community needs. Volcanic activity may also influence when rituals are deemed necessary.

Today

The concept of Pillan remains part of Mapuche identity. The name was used for a Chilean aircraft, showing cultural adaptation. The spiritual beliefs continue among those who follow Mapuche traditions. The connection to volcanoes and natural forces persists in local lore.

Questions people ask about Pillan

Good reading and sources

• Pillan on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data