sémáira

Sémáira is a term originating from the Aymara language, spoken by indigenous peoples in the Andes region of South America. It generally refers to a collection of seeds or grains, often intended for planting or as a food source. The concept of sémáira is deeply intertwined with agricultural practices and the cultural significance of seeds within Andean communities. It represents not just a physical quantity of seeds but also the potential for future harvests and the continuity of agricultural traditions. The careful selection and preservation of sémáira are vital for ensuring food security and maintaining biodiversity. In some contexts, sémáira can also refer to a seed bank or a communal store of seeds, managed by a community to safeguard their agricultural heritage. The term embodies the respect and value placed on seeds as a fundamental element of life and sustenance in the Andean worldview.