According to the Xinca legend, their culture has access to all the wisdom of the Universe. In the place known as “La Palanganita de Oro”, in Santa María Ixhuatán, is “the center of the galaxy, where wisdom emerges. It is a sacred place and when a person enters the water, he is nourished by all that energy “, says Natividad Cano, Xinca Priest.

Driven to cultural extinction since the mid-sixteenth century, the current Xincas are promoting the rescue of their values through spiritual practices.

Offerings and thankfulness

Material offerings are essential during the Xinca ceremony. Photo: Jorge Rodríguez / Viatori

Water is an important element for the Xinca culture. It is the element that gives life, but also the source of galactic wisdom. The colors they use, very similar to the Mayans, symbolize the four cardinal points.

The corn, the bread, the alcohol, each ingredient that is used is a sign of gratitude to the divine forces. As with the Mayas, for the Xincas, corn is another source of life, “what we are made of.”

The Role of Women

The male / female duality is revealed for the Xincas. Photo: Jorge Rodríguez / Viatoriori

These ceremonies are not just a tribute to ancient learning. They are also a sign that spiritual traditions must also evolve and consider women as an essential part of life.

In each step the woman accompanies the man (priest), and all responsibilities are shared in the same way within the ceremony. From placing offerings, lighting the sacred fire to raising prayers to heaven.

“We are the same entity with different visions. Women are also important in our culture, ”says Cano.

The Xincas

The Xincas respect nature, as well as the legacy of their ancestors. Photo: Jorge Rodríguez / Viatori

Very few people in Guatemala know about the Xinca culture. They are a separate people from the Mayans. Their language and customs emerged from other cultures that inhabited El Salvador. During the conquest, the Spanish encountered great resistance from them.

But they were finally overpowered. Enslaved, they were forced to accompany the Spanish in the conquest of El Salvador. Since then their cultural heritage has diminished so much that today only about 200 people speak the Xinca language.