The Incas Had A Unique Communal Concept Called Ayni

Certain components of Inca culture and civilization, such as ayni, are still very much perpetuated and interwoven into modern-day Andean life. "Today for you, tomorrow for me," Ayni is a lovely Quechua phrase that means "today for you, tomorrow for me." This word encapsulates the idea that we all live in an interconnected society and that everyone has to give before they can get.

The Andean have lived in an interdependent society for generations. Each member must respect the other. Work, as well as recreation and prayer, are all shared activities. They think that we are all intertwined, both with each other and with nature. And it's all about striking the right balance. Sun/moon, male/female, and so on. As a result, if personal needs are matched with community needs, the community is balanced. Everything will be OK in the world if our needs are balanced with those of nature.

The concept of ayni was most evident under the Inca Empire in ceremonies such as pagos a Tierra, in which shamans and witnesses returned different tangible and worldly items to Pachamama (Mother Earth). This was done to respect and thank Pachamama for providing such a bountiful harvest. Pagos a la Tierra is still practiced in Andean rural communities today.

Is Ayni still with us? We believe it will always be, provided we trust and keep the balance. It can be found in Peruvian restaurants, residences, cities, and villages. Not mentioned, yet present in deed and action. As a result, this excursion is about more than just observing the balance; it's about seeing and being a part of this Ayni in action. It takes a long time to comprehend that we can transcend beyond ourselves.