Imëhi

Imëhi is a concept found in some indigenous cultures of South America, particularly among Amazonian tribes like the Ashaninka. It refers to a spiritual or mystical energy that permeates the natural world, connecting all living things and the environment. This energy is often associated with plants, animals, rivers, and other aspects of the jungle.

Belief in imëhi suggests a worldview where the spiritual and physical realms are deeply intertwined. It is understood that humans are not separate from nature but are an integral part of this energetic web. Maintaining balance and respect for the natural world is therefore crucial to honoring and living in harmony with imëhi. Rituals, ceremonies, and traditional practices are often employed to connect with and draw strength or guidance from imëhi.

The understanding and manifestation of imëhi can vary significantly between different indigenous groups, reflecting the diversity of their cosmologies and their specific relationships with their respective environments. It is a concept that emphasizes interconnectedness, animism, and the sacredness of the natural world.