Amaru

Nature of the Amaru

Amaru means «serpent» in Quechua. In the Andes it is a mighty serpent being, often depicted with two heads. It lives deep in the earth and in the water – in springs, lakes and rivers that flow from the mountains. It already appears in the imagery of the Inca. It stands for the forces at work between the lower and the upper world – and for change.

Inner attitude

Amaru rests in the depths and yet it moves. With its two heads it looks in two directions at once. Its power is quiet and persistent, like water finding its way through rock.

The essential qualities

• deep
• changeable
• persistent
• connecting
• primal

It holds together what strives in two directions.

Meaning

Amaru appears when you are torn between two sides. It invites you to look at both without rejecting either. And it reminds you that deep change often begins underground, long before it can be seen.

Voice of the being

«Look in both directions. The way leads through the depths.»

Encounter & working together

You meet Amaru at a spring where water rises from the earth, or by a mountain stream. Put your hand in the water and feel where it comes from.

Pay attention to

• where you are torn between two sides
• where something is changing in the depths
• where patience moves more than force

Amaru works when you are ready to honour both sides within you.

Essence

I carry two sides within me and find my way in the depths.