Connecting with the Spirits of the Land: The Role of Meditation in Zapotec History and Culture
Clay traditional hot chocolate jug adorned with a meditative face made by Isabel Martínez of Taller Coatlicue.
Piece of Knowledge
A story of connection with the inner self, and the outer elements.
A practice that is deeply rooted in Zapotec spirituality and is an important part of their cultural heritage.
2/16/2023
Words by
Melissa Patenaude
Meditation has been a part of the Zapotec community for centuries.
Meditation has been a part of the Zapotec community for centuries. The Zapotec people are an indigenous group from the Oaxaca region of Mexico. They have a rich history and culture that has been shaped by their connection to the land and their spirituality. One of the ways that this spirituality is expressed is through meditation.
Zapotec history is closely tied to the natural world. The Zapotec people have a deep respect for the land and its resources. Their ancestors developed sophisticated agricultural systems that allowed them to grow crops in the rugged terrain of the Oaxaca region. They also built elaborate cities and ceremonial centers that reflected their spiritual beliefs.
Clay work by Leticia García Blanco and Fernando Peguero showing their interpretation of spirituality.
One of the most famous Zapotec sites is Monte Albán, an ancient city that was built on a mountaintop overlooking the Oaxaca Valley. The city was inhabited for over a thousand years, from around 500 BCE to 800 CE. The Zapotec people who lived there were known for their sophisticated knowledge of astronomy, mathematics, and architecture. They also had a complex system of writing and a rich mythology.
The Zapotec people have a long history of spiritual practices that are tied to the natural world.
It's about connection
The Zapotec people have a long history of spiritual practices that are tied to the natural world. Meditation is one of these practices. It is a way for individuals to connect with their inner selves and with the world around them.
Clay artisans of the region practice this same connection when it comes to the burning of the clay. They connect with themselves and with the outer world elements to channel a successful burn.
They also belive in the karmic transfer of these combined energies into each pieces of clay.
In the Zapotec community, meditation is often practiced in groups. People gather together in a quiet place, such as a sacred site or a community center, and sit in silence. They focus on their breath and let go of their thoughts and worries. They try to be present in the moment and connect with the world around them.
Meditation in the Zapotec community is not just about relaxation and stress relief. It is also a way to connect with the spirits of the land and the ancestors. Many Zapotec people believe that the land has a spiritual energy that can be tapped into through meditation. By connecting with this energy, they can feel more grounded and centered.
Meditation is also seen as a way to cultivate wisdom and understanding. By quieting the mind and focusing on the present moment, individuals can gain insight into their own lives and the world around them. This wisdom can be shared with others and used to build stronger communities.
In addition to group meditation, there are also individual meditation practices in the Zapotec community. These practices may involve chanting, visualization, or other techniques. They are often passed down from generation to generation and are an important part of Zapotec culture.
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Zapotec spirituality and meditation practices. This is due in part to a growing awareness of the importance of indigenous knowledge and practices. Many Zapotec people are working to preserve and share their traditions with others, both within and outside their community.
\As interest in indigenous knowledge and practices grows, it is likely that meditation in the Zapotec community will continue to be an important and meaningful practice for generations to come.
This is why we love the clay faces we find in Oaxaca. Most people don't know, but the ones featurinf semi-closed or closed eyes are inspired by their connection with spirit.
This is also why we sometimes mention these pieces bring magic to you. It's partly because you get to connect to the humans who crafted these pieces, partly because they are made of natural materials, and also because of this karmic energy transfer which comes from ancestral and spiritual knowledge.
