Tarahumara Beliefs: God and the Devil are Brothers

Tarahumara Indian

Tarahumara Indian

The Tarahumara (Raramuri in their native tongue) still maintain their semi-nomadic way of life with complete disregard for modern technology and conveniences. Their language and traditions are still alive although their spiritual beliefs have recently been combined with some catholic teachings since a few Jesuit missionaries were able to reach their remote locations.

The Tarahumara still keep to themselves, rarely intermarrying or even intermixing with the general population. They are considered extremely shy and prefer to have little contact with the outside world. Their dress is colorful (especially the females) and decorated with traditional bold patterns.

tarahumara group

tarahumara group

Tarahumara religion is characterized by a belief that the afterlife is a mirror image of the mortal world, and that good deeds must be performed not for reward, but for the improvement of life on earth.

The final existence of the soul is represented by a moth after three reincarnated lives. When the moth dies, the soul dies completely. This end is merely a continuation of the order of life and not regarded as negative or a punishment.

In Tarahumara cosmology, The Devil and God are brothers (the Devil is the elder) who jointly created the human race. The Devil, mixing white ash with clay, created the “Chabochi” (non-Raramuri) but God, using pure clay, created the Tarahumara.

God has a wife who dwells with him in heaven, along with their sons, and their daughters.

The Devil’s world is not necessarily evil, but is tainted through its ties with the “Chabochi” (non-Raramuri). The Devil is said to sometimes collaborate with God to arrange fitting punishments. In some cases, with proper motivation the Devil can even be persuaded to act as a benevolent entity.  In essence, the Devil is as much protector and life-giver to the Chabochis as God is to the Tarahumara.

Learn more on Tarahumara Religion

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