Selkʼnam mythology
Mythology of the Selkʼnam and Haush peoples of Tierra del Fuego.
Selkʼnam mythology comprises the traditional narratives of the Selkʼnam and Haush peoples of Tierra del Fuego. It is notable for its complex cosmology and a religious structure that distinguishes a single supreme deity from numerous mythological ancestors.
Quick Facts
- Supreme deity
- Temáukel
- Primary creator figure
- Kenos
- Goddess of the underworld
- Xalpen
- Number of named soorts
- 7
- Number of shóʼon (skies)
- 4
Facts from the source article.
Cosmology
The cosmos consists of four shóʼon, or infinite skies, each aligned with a cardinal direction: Kamuk (northern), Kéikruk (southern), Wintek (eastern), and Kenénik (western). Wintek is considered the most important, serving as the residence of Temáukel and the source of all existence. Each shóʼon corresponds to a season: Kamuk to spring and summer, Kéikruk to winter, Kenénik to autumn, and Wintek to all seasons and possibly time itself.
Gods and spirits
Selkʼnam religion is often described as polytheistic, but only Temáukel is recognized as a god; other figures are regarded as mythological ancestors called howenh. This has led some to characterize the religion as henotheistic. Temáukel is the supreme, primordial god who has always existed and dwells in the eastern sky, Wintek, which he created along with the primitive Earth. The howenh are not gods but mythological ancestors who existed as humans before becoming forces of nature and terraforming elements. Among the most important howenh are Kenos, the first to inhabit Earth, sent by Temáukel to organize it and create the other mythological ancestors; Kwányip and Čénuke; Kojh of the sea; Kren of the sun; Kre of the moon; Josh of the snow; and Shenrr of the wind. Xalpen is the goddess of the underworld, accompanied by seven named Soorts: Sate, Yoisik, Wakus, Keyaisl, Talen, Pawus, and Sanu, along with many unnamed subordinate Soorts. Men represented Xalpen and her subordinates in the Hain ceremony.
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