Ommalashdi

Ommalashdi is a term from the indigenous languages of the Orinoco River basin, primarily associated with the indigenous peoples of Venezuela. It translates roughly to "the long life" or "eternal life" and represents a core concept in their cosmology and worldview. Ommalashdi is not merely the absence of death, but rather a state of spiritual and physical well-being, harmony with nature, and continuity of existence beyond the physical body.

The concept is deeply intertwined with the understanding of the natural world, the spirits that inhabit it, and the proper relationship humans must maintain with both. It emphasizes balance, respect for all living things, and adherence to traditional customs and rituals that ensure the well-being of the community and the preservation of life. For many of these indigenous groups, achieving or approaching Ommalashdi is a central goal, guiding their actions, beliefs, and societal structures. It is seen as a state of grace and a reward for living a life in accordance with ancestral traditions and the sacred laws of the universe. The concept often involves a cyclical view of existence, where life and death are part of a continuous flow rather than a definitive end.