Pachi Mama, Patchi-Mama or Pachimama is the Quechan or Inca word for “Mother Earth” or more accurately “our mother in space and time”. Most cultures have an Earth Mother concept and those of South America are no exception.
But the word “Pachamama” goes beyond the name of a single Goddess, it encompasses an entire world view and way of life. It involves the belief that the Earth is a living being and the mother of all of Earth’s life.
In traditional societies, grown children were expected to take care of their parents and thus, it should be expected that we all care for Pachamama. Pachamama cares for her children as a mother cares for her young and does not turn away from them. If she fails to provide, it is because she is not well.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Pachamama, known as the Earth Mother in Andean and Inca mythology, embodies the Earth itself and symbolizes fertility and abundance.
Indigenous communities in the Andes hold rituals and ceremonies to honor her, making offerings as a sign of gratitude for her blessings.
Pachamama’s close connection to agriculture is particularly significant, as she is sought after for successful harvests.
Her worship emphasizes the need for harmony with nature and responsible stewardship of the Earth’s resources.
Today, Pachamama continues to be revered as a symbol of environmental consciousness and the interconnectedness of humanity with the natural world.
Associations
In modern times, Pachamama is often associated with the Virgin Mary and the median between the polar opposites of Heaven and Hell, God and Satan in the blended Catholic and Native traditions of South America.
Unfortunately, many Evangelical groups are still today working very hard to wipe Pachamama from their theology altogether.
Pachamama Symbols
Images of Pachamama often have three heads, a turtle on her front, a frog on her back, and a snake around her legs. She is Bolivia’s Patron of las brujas (witches/herbalists/traditional healers).
| Symbol | Description |
|---|---|
| Mountains | Pachamama is often depicted with mountains as her sacred realm |
| Mother and Child | Representing the nurturing aspect of Pachamama’s energy and her connection to all living beings |
| Earth Element Symbol | A stylized symbol resembling a downward-pointing triangle with a line through it, representing Pachamama and the earth element |
| Snake | Symbolizing the energy of transformation, regeneration, and connection to the underworld |
| Spiral | Symbol of continuous growth, evolution, and the cyclical nature of life |
The growing season- spring through fall, is associated with Pachamama, while the dry season is associated with Pachatata.
Offerings to Pachamama
Appropriate offerings to Pachamama include corn and grains, bread, and sweet pastries, as well as herding animals (llamas in Bolivia) but She is most pleased by those who live in accordance with Her ways. The golden rule of the Inca is Ama suwa, ama llula, ama q’ella “Do not steal, do not lie, do not be lazy”. Honoring Pachamama needs no mention.
| Offering | Description |
|---|---|
| Coca Leaves | Sacred leaves used for divination and connection with Pachamama |
| Chicha | Traditional fermented corn drink offered as a symbol of gratitude |
| Fruits and Vegetables | Fresh fruits and vegetables representing abundance and sustenance |
| Flowers | Colorful flowers to symbolize beauty and vitality |
| Sacred Herbs | Medicinal herbs and aromatic plants honoring Pachamama’s healing power |
| Corn and Grains | Staples of Andean agriculture representing fertility and prosperity |
Here is an account of an Aymara woman’s worship (The Aymara and Inca have lived side by side for millennia. The Aymara may have been there first. They are traditional herding people of the Andes).
Here is a little song to use when worshiping Pachamama
Huaca Pacha Mama,
Huaca Saqsaywaman,
Huaca Yachaq runa,
Huaca Munaq Runa
Translation;
Temple of the Earth Mother,
Temple of the Speckled Hawk,
Temple of the Wise One,
Temple of the Loving One
English 
Spanish