# W — Inca Glossary

> From the Inca Glossary by Patt O'Neill (© 2007, 2008, 2014).
> Web page: https://incaglossary.com/w
> 108 terms. Each term heading links to that term's own Markdown file.

## [wacho](https://incaglossary.com/w/wacho.md)

, wach'u,
wachu: (n) (1) Row of earth dug to plant seeds. (2) The waking
spiritual seed in people.

(3) Lineage. [NND] (*See*, [muhu](https://incaglossary.com/m/muhu.md), [winay](https://incaglossary.com/w/winay.md), [paq'owacho](https://incaglossary.com/p/paqowachu.md).)

## [wachuma](https://incaglossary.com/w/wachuma.md)

*See*,
 [huachuma](https://incaglossary.com/h/huachuma.md).

## [waka punku](https://incaglossary.com/w/wakapunku.md)

(n)
Literally, *cow gate*. Slang for *big butt*. [RS] [My
Quechua dictionaries define *waka* as *cow*. But, because
cows did not exist in South America until the Spanish brought them, *waka*
must come from the Spanish word for the animal: *vaca*. (Would *huaca
waka* mean *holy cow*?) – Patt]

## [wak'a](https://incaglossary.com/w/waka.md)

(n) *See*,
 [huaca](https://incaglossary.com/h/huaca.md).

## [Wall of Six Monoliths](https://incaglossary.com/w/wall-of-six-monoliths.md)

(n) The
southeast wall of the Sun Temple at Ollantaytambo. The largest stone in
the Wall of the Six Monoliths is about 4.3 m high, 2.1 m wide, 1.8 m
thick, and weighs about 50 tonnes. [DPI]

- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/monoliths.jpg — Wall of Six Monoliths. [WIKI]

> **Editorial note**
>
> **"How
> were such titanic blocks of stone brought to the top of the mountain
> from the quarries many miles away? How were they cut and fitted? How
> were they raised and put in place? No one knows, no one can even guess.
> There are archaeologists, scientists, who would have us believe that
> the dense, hard andesite rock was cut, surfaced and faced by means of
> stone or bronze tools. Such an explanation is so utterly preposterous
> that it is not even worthy of serious consideration. No one ever has
> found anywhere any stone tool or implement that would cut or chip the
> andesite, and no bronze ever made will make any impression upon it."**
>
> A. Hyatt
> & Ruth Verrill, *America's Ancient Civilizations*

## [wamani](https://incaglossary.com/w/wamani.md)

(n)
Mountain spirits who live in gold and silver homes inside the
mountains, manifest as [condors](https://incaglossary.com/c/condor.md), men,
owners of all animals and give shelter to the leader of the herds. The
Wamanis are associated with the mountains, the highland pastures, the
sky, livestock and man. [Pachamama](https://incaglossary.com/p/pachamama.md) is
associated with the earth, agriculture and woman. Thus there is an
opposition between these two divinities. But they are related to each
other through the mediation of the [Amaru](https://incaglossary.com/a/amaru.md),
who inhabits the springs and lagoons of the high pastures. From there
he circulates to the valleys through streams and irrigation canals, for
his principal element is water. Ritual offerings are deposited in the
springs found at the foot of the mountains in the high country. Then
the Amaru emerges from the [ukhupacha](https://incaglossary.com/u/ukhupacha.md)
to sweep the gifts of man down to the valleys below. In this fashion
the Wamanis (sky) communicate with Pachamama through the mediation of
the Amaru (water). [WOFW][Archetype](https://incaglossary.com/a/archetype.md) of the ; a visionary. Wamanis protect. [JLH]
Protective
spirit inhabiting mountain peaks, high passes, springs, etc. [CSCR]

## [waqanqui](https://incaglossary.com/w/waqanqui.md)

Languages: AYM

(n)
An amulet or talisman. Power objects, mostly of alabaster or soapstone.
Also known as *khochqa*. [WOFW]

## [wamanchay](https://incaglossary.com/w/wamanchay.md)

(n) A ceremony of gifting of [Vision](https://incaglossary.com/v/vision.md). Has
to do with destiny. [JLH]

## [wanduj](https://incaglossary.com/w/wanduj.md)

*See*, [Brugmansia suaveolens](https://incaglossary.com/b/brugmansiasuaveolens.md).

## [wanka](https://incaglossary.com/w/wanka.md)

*See*,
 [huanca](https://incaglossary.com/h/huanca.md).

## [wankar](https://incaglossary.com/w/wankar.md)

(n) A small war drum. [ACES]

## [wankar k'uychi](https://incaglossary.com/w/wankarkuychi.md)

(n) A male rainbow with a large head which is fastened to the rainbow
like a tail, large ears, dark eyes, eyebrows, eyelashes and a beard and
white hair. These are usually seen high in the sky, their lower parts
obscured by heavy clouds. Along the high, visible part a black cat ([k'owa](https://incaglossary.com/k/koa.md)) can be seen moving stealthily up the
side of the bow. This cat is seen as a demon and the harbinger of hail
and lightning. This rainbow is especially despised because he is a
thief. [ACES]
(*See*,
 [k'uychi](https://incaglossary.com/k-prime/kuychi.md), [Koa](https://incaglossary.com/k/koa.md), [wankar](https://incaglossary.com/w/wankar.md).)

## [wanu](https://incaglossary.com/w/wanu.md)

(n)
Manure, dung, fertilizer, guano (sp). [RS]

## [wañu](https://incaglossary.com/w/wanu-2.md)

(n) Death,
or life after life. [RS]

## [wañuchiy](https://incaglossary.com/w/wanuchiy.md)

(v) To kill. [PSL]

## [wañupuy](https://incaglossary.com/w/wanupuy.md)

(v) To die. [PSL]

## [wañusqa](https://incaglossary.com/w/wanusqa.md)

(adj) Dead. [PSL]

## [wañuy](https://incaglossary.com/w/wanuy.md)

(n) Death. (v) To die. [PSL]

## [wapu](https://incaglossary.com/w/wapu.md)

(adj) Strong, brave, macho. [PSL]

## [waqachiy](https://incaglossary.com/w/waqachiy.md)

(v) To play music. [QP]

## [waqay](https://incaglossary.com/w/waqay.md)

(v) To cry. (n) Tear; crying. [PSL]

## [waqtu](https://incaglossary.com/w/waqtu.md)

(n) Alcohol. [QP]

## [waq'a](https://incaglossary.com/w/waqa.md)

(adj) Crazy. [QP]

## [warayoq, warayuq, warayoj, varayoq](https://incaglossary.com/w/warayoq.md)

(n) Edil; town councilor. [RS]One
who possesses the staff of office in the indigenous civil-religious
heirarchy of an Andean community. [ROR][Inca](https://incaglossary.com/i/inca.md) priest. [AYV]

## [wari](https://incaglossary.com/w/wari.md)

(n)
A hybrid [camelid](https://incaglossary.com/c/camelid.md), a cross between a [llama](https://incaglossary.com/ll/llama.md) and an [alpaca](https://incaglossary.com/a/alpaca.md).
 [MAN]

## [Wari](https://incaglossary.com/w/wari-2.md)

(n) (1) One of the legendary lineage [ayllus](https://incaglossary.com/a/ayllu.md) of [Cajatambo](https://incaglossary.com/c/cajatambo.md).
 [MAN]
(2) A culture based in Ayacucho (modern central Peru) that flourished
contemporary to [Tiwanaku](https://incaglossary.com/appendix/n#tiwanaku). [ANON1]
*See*,
entry in [Appendix N](https://incaglossary.com/appendix/n#wari).

## [Wari Runa](https://incaglossary.com/w/wariruna.md)

(n) The name given by the [Inca](https://incaglossary.com/i/inca.md) to the
people of the [Second Sun](https://incaglossary.com/s/secondsun.md). They wore
clothing of animal skins and lived simply and peacefully, recognizing [Wiracocha](https://incaglossary.com/w/wiracocha.md) as their creator. [MAN]
(*See*,
 [pachacuti](https://incaglossary.com/p/pachacuti.md).)

## [Wari Wiracocharuna](https://incaglossary.com/w/wariwiracocharuna.md)

(n) The name given by the [Inca](https://incaglossary.com/i/inca.md) to the
hunter-gatherer people of the [First Sun](https://incaglossary.com/fg/firstsun.md)
(over 5000 years ago). These people were thought to be immediate
descendents of the survivors of the [Uñu Pachacuti](https://incaglossary.com/u/unupachacuti.md), a great flood. These people were primitive and wore
clothing of leaves. They called their creator [Tiqsi](https://incaglossary.com/t/tiqsi.md)
[Wiracocha](https://incaglossary.com/w/wiracocha.md) or [Pachacamac](https://incaglossary.com/p/pachacamac.md). [MAN]
(*See*,
 [pachacuti](https://incaglossary.com/p/pachacuti.md).)

- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/wariwiracocha.jpg — Wari Wiracocharuna, by Felipe Guaman [Poma](https://incaglossary.com/appendix/m#poma) de Ayala.

## [warmi, huarmi](https://incaglossary.com/w/warmi.md)

(n) Woman, wife. [PSL]

## [warmichakuy](https://incaglossary.com/w/warmichakuy.md)

(n) A church wedding. Also called *casarakuy* or *runachakuy*.

## [warmi icaro](https://incaglossary.com/w/warmi-icaro.md)

(n) A song used to win the love of a woman. [AYV]

## [warmi murayas](https://incaglossary.com/w/warmimurayas.md)

(n) Dressed in the scaly armor of fish, they resemble [mermaids](https://incaglossary.com/m/mermaid.md) and are always watering the pink
and white flowers with which they perform their alchemical healing. [AYV]
(*See*,
 [alchemy](https://incaglossary.com/a/alchemy.md), [warmi](https://incaglossary.com/w/warmi.md), [muraya](https://incaglossary.com/m/muraya.md).)

- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/warmimurayas.jpg — Warmi murayas (foreground) with [puka-chukchas](https://incaglossary.com/p/puka-chukchas.md) behind them. [AYV]

## [Warmi Pacha](https://incaglossary.com/w/warmi-pacha.md)

*See*, [Qhapaq Raymi](https://incaglossary.com/q-prime/qhapaq-raymi.md).

## [Warmi Pasqua](https://incaglossary.com/w/warmi-pasqua.md)

*See*, [Qhapaq Raymi](https://incaglossary.com/q-prime/qhapaq-raymi.md).

## [warmiyoj](https://incaglossary.com/w/warmiyoj.md)

(n) A married man. [PSL]

## [wasa tullu](https://incaglossary.com/w/wasa-tullu.md)

(n) Spine. [PSL]

## [Wascar, Waskar, Huascar, Huascaran](https://incaglossary.com/w/wascar.md)

(n) The 13th Inca emperor (ruled 1526-32), having seized the throne
after the sudden death of his father, [Huayna Capac](https://incaglossary.com/h/huaynacapac.md), and the heir-apparent [Ninán Cuyúnchic](https://incaglossary.com/n/ninancuyunchic.md), from smallpox. His rule was contested by his
half-brother, [Atahualpa](https://incaglossary.com/a/atahualpa.md), in a civil
war that weakened the empire, making it easier for the Spanish to
conquer. Wascar was captured and executed by his brother in 1532. [MAN]
The uncrowned king. [JLH]His
full name was Topa Cusihualpa Wascar Inca. [GPA] At least
one teacher of Inca shamanism uses him as the archetype of the [Ukhupacha](https://incaglossary.com/u/ukhupacha.md). [PGO] (*See*, [Ayar Ukhu](https://incaglossary.com/a/ayarukhu.md), and [Supay](https://incaglossary.com/s/supay-2.md)
second entry. Also, *see*,
 [rutuchikuy](https://incaglossary.com/r/rutuchikuy.md) to find out
how Wascar got his name.)

- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/wascar.jpg — Wascar. From the chronicle Historia by Antonio de [Herrera](https://incaglossary.com/appendix/m#herrera), 1601; in the Biblioteca Nacional, Madrid.

## [wasi](https://incaglossary.com/w/wasi.md)

(n) (1) House. [RS] (2) Can be
used as a name for a populated sacred center or ceremonial space (for
example, the house of modern Cusco [huachumero](https://incaglossary.com/h/huachumero.md)
Don Víctor Estrada is lovingly referred to as *Willka Wasi*,
“sacred house”). [ANON1]

## [wasi-masi](https://incaglossary.com/w/wasi-masi.md)

(n) Neighbor. [RS]

## [wasi-pichay](https://incaglossary.com/w/wasi-pichay.md)

(n) Literally, *house sweeping*. A house-warming kind of ceremony
in which friends come to a new dwelling and clean and repaint it. [ROR]

## [waska](https://incaglossary.com/w/waska.md)

*See*,
 [huasca](https://incaglossary.com/h/huasca.md).

## [wata](https://incaglossary.com/w/wata.md)

(n) Year, age. [QP]

## [wata hunt'ay](https://incaglossary.com/w/wata-huntay.md)

(n) Birthday. [QP]

## [watana](https://incaglossary.com/w/watana.md)

From *watay*,
to attach, to bind, to tie up. Place where something is attached; rope
to bind something; bond; fetter. [RS]*See*, [Inti watana](https://incaglossary.com/i/intiwatana.md).

## [watanakuy](https://incaglossary.com/w/watanakuy.md)

: (n) Also called *sirvinacuy* or *tincunacuspa*. [DYE]
An Andean custom where a couple lives together for one to three years
before the final commitment for life. After the final commitment, over
ninety percent of these couples remain together. If a young man is
interested, he takes a small mirror and reflects the sunlight to the
girl as she tends animals in the fields. This is often done from one
mountainside to another. If affections continue and become serious, the
couple enters into the trial marriage by living in the young man's
community. If the relationship falls out of harmony, the elders of the
community confront the couple and suggest they separate. If a baby
results, the maternal grandparents raise it. The young man and woman,
now separated, are free to seek another union. This has been a
successful custom in the highlands for centuries and persists despite
opposition from the Catholic Church. [IGMP] The
Andean custom of trial marriage, literally, *a year bound together*.
 [CSCR]*See*, *watana*,
above.

## [watuq, watoq](https://incaglossary.com/w/watuq.md)

(n) Fortune teller. [QP]
A [diviner](https://incaglossary.com/d/divination.md). [WOFW]
 Medicine man. [QISLI] They
diagnosed illness through divination with [coca](https://incaglossary.com/c/coca.md)
leaves, entrails of [guinea pigs](https://incaglossary.com/q/quwi.md), or through
visions and dreams. [ACAI]

## [wausay](https://incaglossary.com/w/wausay.md)

(n)
Homosexuality was definitely prohibited in the [Inca realm](https://incaglossary.com/t/tawantinsuyu.md). It existed, though, and
under certain circumstances it was practiced among the highly
intellectual classes under the disguise of religious and magic acts.
However, the old writings are full of information regarding the cruel
extermination of homosexuals which from time to time was decreed by the
 [Incas](https://incaglossary.com/s/sapainca.md). After the conquest
of the Chinchas, the Inca had all homosexuals burned at the stake and
had all their houses demolished and their fields destroyed with all
trees uprooted, so that there remained no memory or sign of their
existence. [DYE]*See*, [sexual activity](https://incaglossary.com/s/sexualactivity.md) for more information
and other links.

- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/wausay.jpg — A Moche ceramic.

> **Editorial note**
>
> **“Both
> among the highlanders and the coastal peoples, the devil has introduced
> this vice [homosexuality] disguised as a sort of sanctity; and in each
> temple or adoratory of import they have one or more boys, depending on
> the idol, who are dressed as women since childhood and they talk like
> women and in their ways and countenance they act as women. With these,
> during the holidays and special festivities, almost as a part of their
> holy religious rites, the principals have carnal access.”**
> -- Fray [Domingo](https://incaglossary.com/appendix/m#domingo) de Santo Tomas, ca.
> 1560. [DYE]
> [This quote is included for its historical significance and does not
> reflect any personal opinion other than that of Fray Domingo.]

## [wawa](https://incaglossary.com/w/wawa.md)

(n) Human baby. [QP]

## [wawa qhawaq](https://incaglossary.com/w/wawa-qhawaq.md)

(n) Literally, *baby watcher*. Baby sitter. [QP]

## [wawayoj](https://incaglossary.com/w/wawayoj.md)

(n) Parent, woman who has children. [RS]

## [wawtisay](https://incaglossary.com/w/wawtisay.md)

(n) Christening. [QP]

## [wayllunakuy](https://incaglossary.com/w/wayllunakuy.md)

(v) To fall in love. [QP]

## [waylluq](https://incaglossary.com/w/waylluq.md)

(n) Lover. [QP]

## [waylluy](https://incaglossary.com/w/waylluy.md)

(v) To love. [QP]

## [wayna](https://incaglossary.com/w/wayna.md)

(n) A youth. [QP]

## [Wayna Capac](https://incaglossary.com/w/wayna-capac.md)

*See*,
 [Huayna Capac](https://incaglossary.com/h/huaynacapac.md)

## [Waynacawi](https://incaglossary.com/w/waynacawi.md)

*See*,
 [Huana Cauri](https://incaglossary.com/h/huanacauri.md).

## [waynu](https://incaglossary.com/w/waynu.md)

(n) In Andean tradition, the band from which rivers emanate; the place
from which luminous fibers emanate; the point of non-existence, just
below the belly button. (*See*,
 [energy centers](https://incaglossary.com/e/energycenter.md), [qosqo](https://incaglossary.com/q/qosqo.md).) [MBE]

## [wayñu](https://incaglossary.com/w/waynu-2.md)

Languages: AYM

Lover, love song. [CSCR]

## [wayqi, waiki, guaoqui, huauque](https://incaglossary.com/w/wayqi.md)

(n) (1) Brother (of man), male friend of a man. [QP]
(2) Brother, cosmic twin, part that never left creation, that is pure,
uncorruptible. In contemporary vernacular, brother-in-arms.
(3) Every [Inca](https://incaglossary.com/s/sapainca.md) had a wayqi, a divine
double, as [Sarmiento](https://incaglossary.com/appendix/m#sarmiento) explained it,
"an idol whom each Inca elected for his companion to give him oracles
and responses." [HOI]The
pre-Hispanic [Incas](https://incaglossary.com/i/inca.md) made no portraits, in
the sense of physiognomic likenesses of particular people. That does
not mean that certain people were not represented by -- or rather,
presented through -- particular objects. Also, it does not mean that
the presence of some certain individuals was not recognized as inhering
in some certain material objects. Inca rulers, for example, kept
statues known as wayqis which were regarded as the living ruler's
double and treated like the ruler they signified, both before and after
the ruler's death. Wayqi means a male's brother (see def. 1 above) and
refers both to a ruler's biological brothers and to his statue brother.
The wayqi statue or statues (some rulers had more than one) were
treated with the reverence owed their living brother and, after the
ruler's death, were equated with him. They carried it to war and took
in procession in order to obtain water and favorable weather, and for
which they used to make various festivals and sacrifices. Wayqis owned
both land and goods, and had sets of retainers to see to their needs.
Unfortunately, no wayqis that we know of survived the colonial era.
[This author argues that] the [mummy](https://incaglossary.com/m/mallqui.md) [of
the [Sapa Inca](https://incaglossary.com/s/sapainca.md)] was  the repository
of the ruler's feminine side and was associated with both crop and
human fertility; the wayqi manifested the deceased ruler's masculinity
and was associated with warfare (conceived of as a male activity) and
an adequate water supply (as water was equated metaphorically with
semen). Mummy and wayqi thus constituted complementary halves (*see*, [yanantin](https://incaglossary.com/y/yanantin.md)] of the deceased ruler. [IPWY]
 (*See*,
 [paña](https://incaglossary.com/p/pana.md).)

---

**Manco
Capac's wayqi was the bird called Inti, whom everyone venerated and
feared as something sacred, or, as others say, enchanted, and they
thought that this bird made Manco Capac lord, so that people obeyed
him. This bird was bequeathed from one ruling Inca to the next as an
inalienable inheritance and token of sovereignty of fearsome sacrality.
The first to venture to look upon the bird Inti face to face was the
audacious Inca Mayta Capac, who spoke with it as with an oracle and
hence both learned the future and became wise. Like the [Sapa] Inca, so
his wayki owned herds, lands, and male and female retainers to serve
its cult. When the Inca died, this cult continued to be addressed to
the wayki, alongside the [cult](https://incaglossary.com/c/cultofthedead.md) to
the Inca's mummy.** [RAVI]

---

## [wayra, huaira](https://incaglossary.com/w/wayra.md)

(n) Wind, air.

## [wayra kawsay](https://incaglossary.com/w/wayra-kawsay.md)

(n) The
living energy or spirit of wind. [NND]

## [Wayramama, Huairamama](https://incaglossary.com/w/wayramama.md)

(n) The [mama](https://incaglossary.com/m/mama.md) of the sky and
air; a snake that moves with a great wind. It is said in the Amazon
that when the Wayramama takes a bath, a sound of thunder is heard
between the clouds, but no water falls to the ground ([supay-cato](https://incaglossary.com/s/supay-cato.md)). When a healer calls out to
the Wayramama in a trance, she comes with a great wind that is born
without any clouds to be seen and that passes like a whirlwind. The
eyes of this mama shine with white lights and her mouth radiates violet
waves that make us feel like giants who can sense anything that comes
near. (*See*,
 [Sach'amama](https://incaglossary.com/s/sachamama.md), [Yakumama](https://incaglossary.com/y/yakumama.md).) [AYV]

- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/wayramama.jpg — The three powers. Painting by Pablo Amaringo, an [ayahuascero](https://incaglossary.com/a/ayahuascero.md), of one of his visions. The top power is Wayramama, [mother](https://incaglossary.com/m/mama.md) of the air; in the center is Yakumama, mother of the waters; and at the bottom is Sach'amama, mother of the forest. [AYV]

## [wayrapacha, huairapacha](https://incaglossary.com/w/wayrapacha.md)

(n) World of wind/oxygen/air. (*See*,
 [wayra](https://incaglossary.com/w/wayra.md).)

## [wayra-supay](https://incaglossary.com/w/wayra-supay.md)

(n) A snake of the air with horns that is able to create
tremendous whirlpools. [AYV]

## [wayray](https://incaglossary.com/w/wayray.md)

(v) To blow (wind) [PSL]

## [wayruru, huayruru, wayruro](https://incaglossary.com/w/wayruru.md)

(n) Brightly colored beans used in rituals and as a
love charm. [ROR]
Used to attract good luck and ward off the evil eye. [ACAI]

- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/wayruru.jpg — Wayrurus.

## [Weeping God](https://incaglossary.com/w/weepinggod.md)

(n) The depiction of a god on the [Gateway of the Sun](https://incaglossary.com/fg/gatewayofthesun.md) at [Tiwanako](https://incaglossary.com/t/tiwanako.md). The central
figure is standing on a stepped platform resembling the tiered mounds
of the sacred precinct of Tiwanako. The figure has a squarish head
adorned in a headdress with sun rays radiating from the top and sides;
the eyes have large drops below them. Its outstretched arms hold two
“staffs” -- one has been interpreted as a spear thrower and the other a
quiver for spears, a clear resemblance to the staff deity of Chavín
times.[MAN]
(*See*,
 [staff deities](https://incaglossary.com/s/staffdeities.md).)

- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/weepinggod.jpg — Drawing of the Weeping God of the Gateway of the Sun. [TAI]

## [west, the](https://incaglossary.com/w/west.md)

Languages: Eng

(n)
One of the four cardinal directions representing the four winds. (*See* , [level of abstraction](https://incaglossary.com/l/levelofabstraction.md), def. 2.)
The West is interpreted as a “negative” or “dangerous” direction in [curanderismo](https://incaglossary.com/c/curanderismo.md) because it is the region
where the sun is swallowed up by the sea. [WOFW]  (*See*, also, [east](https://incaglossary.com/e/east.md), [north](https://incaglossary.com/n/north.md),
 [south](https://incaglossary.com/s/south.md).)

## [Wichama, Vichama](https://incaglossary.com/w/wichama.md)

(n) [Inca](https://incaglossary.com/i/inca.md) god of death and son of [Inti](https://incaglossary.com/i/inti.md). [GM]
The second son of the first human woman, created by [Pachacamac](https://incaglossary.com/p/pachacamac.md). [EFD]

## [wifala](https://incaglossary.com/w/wifala.md)

*See*, [wiphala](https://incaglossary.com/w/wiphala.md).

## [wiksayuq](https://incaglossary.com/w/wiksayuq.md)

(n) Pregnant woman. [QP]

## [wilca qosqo](https://incaglossary.com/w/wilca-qosqo.md)

Literally, *sacred stomach*. *See*, [qosqo](https://incaglossary.com/q/qosqo.md) for more definition.

## [wilka, willka, villka, wilco, wilca, huilca, huillca](https://incaglossary.com/w/wilka.md)

(adj.) Sacred. [ROR]
[TLD]
Holy, sacred and dangerous. [RS]
Sometimes can mean “dangerous” as well, an etymological connection
which may come from the notion of the holy as being all-powerful and
not particularly appreciative of egotistical lack of reverence. [ANON1] (n) (1)
God. [RS]
[TLD]
(2) Also, cebil, angico. *Anadenanthera colubrina*. *Wilka*
is a Quechua term which signifies sacred or magic. This plant was used
by the ancient sorcerers as a component of some brews with powerful
mental effects. The majority of the species of this genus have
hallucinogenic action. The seeds are still used by contemporaneous
shamans. Ground to a powder, they are used as snuff, obtaining narcotic
and hallucinogenic effects. [DYE]  The
tree's bark is the most common part used medicinally. Gum from the tree
is used medicinally to treat upper respiratory tract infections, as an
expectorant and otherwise for cough. [WIKI] At least
14 tribes have been documented to use wilka for shamanistic, healing
purposes. The seeds are also used as an additive in [chicha](https://incaglossary.com/ch/chicha.md), a hallucinogenic, fermented
beer-like beverage used for rituals and ceremonies. [ADN]

- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/wilka1.jpg
- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/wilka2.jpg — Wilka leaves, flowers (left) and seeds (right).

## [wilkacamayoc, wilkamayoc](https://incaglossary.com/w/wilkacamayoc.md)

(n) An individual employed to coordinate ceremonial worship
at [huacas](https://incaglossary.com/h/huaca.md). [ACAI]

## [Wilka Kuti](https://incaglossary.com/w/wilka-kuti.md)

Languages: AYM

(n) *The return sun*. On June 21 of every year in [Tiwanako](https://incaglossary.com/t/tiwanako.md) a festival takes place that
represents the rescue of its cultural identity for the [Aymara](https://incaglossary.com/a/aymara.md). (*See*,
 [wilka](https://incaglossary.com/w/wilka.md), [kuti](https://incaglossary.com/k/kuti.md).)

## [wilkanina](https://incaglossary.com/w/wilkanina.md)

(n) The
sacred fire. [WWKN]

## [Wilka Ñust'a](https://incaglossary.com/w/wilkanyusta.md)

, Willka
Ñust'a: (n) Ancient name of the Urubamba River, now known as the [Vilcanota River](https://incaglossary.com/v/vilcanotariver.md). [RS] The black
virgin or *princess of the black light*; a mythical being
associated with what is now the Urubamba River (*See*, also, [Willkamayu](https://incaglossary.com/w/willkamayu.md) for more definition.)

## [Wilka Uta](https://incaglossary.com/w/wilka-uta.md)

(n) An
ancient name of what is now called the [Gateway of Amaru Muru](https://incaglossary.com/fg/gatewayofamarumuru.md). [IGMP]

## [willaq](https://incaglossary.com/w/willaq.md)

(adj) Anointed. [RS]

## [willaq](https://incaglossary.com/w/willaq-2.md)

(n) Priest. Spokesman; speaker; messenger; announcer. [RS]

## [Willaq Umu, Willac Uma, Willaq Inca Umu](https://incaglossary.com/w/willaqumu.md)

(n) The priest in charge of reading the
omens and making the predictions for the [Inca](https://incaglossary.com/i/inca.md).
[RS]High
priest of [Inti](https://incaglossary.com/i/inti.md). [RMFA] The most
important priest in the Incan society that in normal conditions was a
close relative of the [Sapa Inca](https://incaglossary.com/s/sapainca.md): his
brother or uncle. [WQC] The
highest position of the priesthood (willaq = anointed; umu = priest)
who was appointed directly by the Inca. This priest was the highest
authority in religious activities. He led a holy life: frugal diet,
complete abstention from meat, alcohol and sex, living most of the year
in almost total seclusion. He presided over major religious festivals
and in them was surrounded by a host of well-organized assistants
usually belonging to an [ayllu](https://incaglossary.com/a/ayllu.md) of [tarpuntaes](https://incaglossary.com/t/tarpuntaes.md) who occupied important
positions not only in the capital of [Cusco](https://incaglossary.com/c/cusco.md),
but were appointed personally by the Willac Inka Umu to exercise power
and authority in all major population centers (there were ten major
districts) and each was headed by a priest-healer. These healers were
highly esteemed people in the community and inspired respect
everywhere. People recognized them by their long well-groomed hair,
white cotton tunic and a brown cloak knotted over his right shoulder
with colored wool tassels. In official festivities their faces were
painted black and they preached the religion of the sun. They were in
charge of communication with the sun, moon and stars (the main
deities). [MHP] The
highest office in the priesthood directly appointed by the Inca from
among the members of his family. His status and influence was only
secondary to the Inca, and he was the weightiest authority in all
matters concerning religious activities and organization. It is said
that he led a rather saintly life -- his diet was frugal; he abstained
from meat, alcohol and sex; living mostly in complete seclusion. He
presided over the great religious festivities and was surrounded by an
efficiently organized host of aids, the Tarpuntaes, who held important
religious offices in Cusco, but were personally appointed by him to
exert his power and authority in all ten “dioceses” of the [Tawantinsuyo](https://incaglossary.com/t/tawantinsuyu.md). They were located at
Collao, Collasuyo, Contisuyo, Chincha, Huaylas, Cajamarca, Ayabaca,
Quito and the regions of Canas and Canchis. [DYE] A sage who
could predict the future and cure illness with only his energy. [ACAI]

## [willkachay](https://incaglossary.com/w/willkachay.md)

(v) To consecrate; to sanctify. [RS]

## [willcachina](https://incaglossary.com/w/willcachina.md)

(n) A
special type of syringe used for enemas, which were given frequently. [DYE]

## [Willkamayu](https://incaglossary.com/w/willkamayu.md)

(n) Literally, *holy river*. A river in Peru, *aka* [Vilcanota](https://incaglossary.com/v/vilcanotariver.md). [RS]
Literally, *sacred river*. The Urubamba River which flows through
the Sacred Valley below [Machu Picchu](https://incaglossary.com/m/machupicchu.md).
It is considered the Earthly reflection of [Mayu](https://incaglossary.com/m/mayu.md),
the river of stars that compose the Milky Way. [ACAI] The
Urubamba River or Willkamayu (Quechua for "sacred river") is a river in
Peru. Upstream it is called by its Aymara name Willkanuta (*house of
the sun*, hispanicized as *Vilcanota*). [WIKI] Considered
the major artery for the movement of water collected from the smaller
tributaries of the earth back to the cosmic sea, from where it is taken
up into the sky within the Milky Way (Mayu) and recycled through the
universe (*see*, image at [Mayu](https://incaglossary.com/m/mayu.md)). The Milky Way is itself thought to be
the celestial reflection of the Vilcanota River. [ACES]*See*, also, [Wilka Ñusta](https://incaglossary.com/w/wilkanyusta.md) for more definition.

- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/willkamayu.jpg — Willkamayu, shown on this map as Rio Urabamba (red arrows).

## [willkanqa](https://incaglossary.com/w/willkanqa.md)

(n) A portent, a sign from God. [RS]

## [Willka Ñ ust'a](https://incaglossary.com/w/willka-n-usta.md)

(n)
 *See*, [Wilka Ñust'a](https://incaglossary.com/w/wilkanyusta.md). [RS]

## [willka wasi](https://incaglossary.com/w/willka-wasi.md)

(n) Literally, *god house*. A temple. [RS]

## [winay](https://incaglossary.com/w/winay.md)

(n)
Germination. This refers to plant germination as well as the spiritual
germination of the initiate's seed. [NND] (*See*, [wacho](https://incaglossary.com/w/wacho.md), [muhu](https://incaglossary.com/m/muhu.md).)

## [wiñay](https://incaglossary.com/w/winyay.md)

(n) Always, forever, eternity. (v) To grow, to age. [PSL]
[QP]

## [wiñay hunt'asqa](https://incaglossary.com/w/winay-huntasqa.md)

(n) Adult.

## [Wiñay Marka](https://incaglossary.com/w/winay-marka.md)

(n) An
ancient name for [Lake Titicaca](https://incaglossary.com/l/laketiticaca.md). [IGMP] *Eternal
Homeland*. [RS]
[TLD]

## [wiñay trato](https://incaglossary.com/w/winay-trato.md)

(n) Everlasting covenant (sp.). [PSL]

## [wiñaypaj](https://incaglossary.com/w/winaypaj.md)

(adv) Forever. [PSL]

## [wiphala, wifala](https://incaglossary.com/w/wiphala.md)

Languages: Aym

(n)
A flag. Each [suyu](https://incaglossary.com/s/suyu.md) has its own wiphala of 49
squares, identified by the color of the diagonal line (from left to
right and from up to down) attributed to each suyu.[WPC] [Re.
significance of the 49 squares:] There is a legend that 49 visitors
from three different planets came here to help mankind. [IGMP] (*See*,
individual suyu names – [Chinchisuyu](https://incaglossary.com/ch/chinchisuyu.md),
 [Kontisuyu](https://incaglossary.com/k/kontisuyu.md), [Antisuyu](https://incaglossary.com/a/antisuyu.md), and [Kollasuyu](https://incaglossary.com/k/kollasuyu.md)
– for an image of these flags.)

## [wira](https://incaglossary.com/w/wira.md)

(n) Fat, grease. [QP]

## [Wiracocha](https://incaglossary.com/w/wiracocha.md)

(n) (1) Associated with water, white, the Milky Way [[Mayu](https://incaglossary.com/m/mayu.md)], the periphery, and [hurin](https://incaglossary.com/h/hurin.md). Literally, *foam of the sea* or *sea
(lake) of fat*, fat being considered a life essence. The name was
applied to the Spanish because they came from the sea, the periphery of
the Inca world, and were white-skinned. [CSCR]
Legends of the [Aymara](https://incaglossary.com/a/aymara.md) Indians say that
their Creator God Wiracocha rose from [Lake Titicaca](https://incaglossary.com/l/laketiticaca.md) during the time of darkness to bring forth light. A storm
and sun god, he was represented as wearing the sun for a crown with
thunderbolts in his hands and tears descending from his eyes as rain. (*See*,
 [Weeping God](https://incaglossary.com/w/weepinggod.md), [Gateway of the Sun](https://incaglossary.com/fg/gatewayofthesun.md).) He wandered
the earth disguised as a beggar and wept when he saw the plight of the
creatures he had created. [LDC]
He had one son, [Inti](https://incaglossary.com/i/inti.md), and one daughter, [Mama Quilla](https://incaglossary.com/m/mamakilla.md). His wife was [Mama Cocha](https://incaglossary.com/m/mamacocha.md). He destroyed the giants
(before mankind existed) with a great flood called [Uñu Pachacuti](https://incaglossary.com/u/unupachacuti.md). [EFD].
Supreme [Inca](https://incaglossary.com/i/inca.md) god. Other names applied to
the same figure included Huaracocha, Con, Con Ticci or Kon Tiki,
Thunupa, Taapac, Tupaca and Illa. He was a scientist, an architect of
surpassing skills, a sculptor and an engineer. Wiracocha was also a
teacher and a healer and made himself helpful to people in need. It was
said that wherever he passed, he healed all that were sick and restored
sight to the blind. Working great miracles by his words, he came to the
district of the Canas and there, near a village called [Cacha](https://incaglossary.com/c/cacha.md)... leaving the place ... he came to the
coast and there, holding his mantle, he went forth amidst the waves and
was seen no more. And as he went they gave him the name Wiracocha,
which means *Foam of the Sea*. [FOG]
[Montesinos](https://incaglossary.com/appendix/m) said that
Illa-tici-Uiracocha was the name of the creator of the world; [Molina](https://incaglossary.com/appendix/m#molina) that Tecsi-Uiracocha was the
Creator and incomprehensible God; the anonymous Jesuit that Uiracocha
meant the great god of ‘Pirua' ...According to Montesinos and the
anonymous Jesuit, *Uira* or *Vira* is a corruption of *Pirua*
meaning a depository. The first meaning of *cocha* is a lake, but
here it is held to signify profundity, abyss, space. The ‘Dweller in
Space.' *Ticci* is base or foundation, hence *the founder*.
 *Illa* means light. The anonymous Jesuit gives the
meaning ‘Eternal Light' to Illa-Ticci. The word [Con](https://incaglossary.com/c/con.md),
given by Bertanzos and Garcia, has no known meaning. [Pachakamak](https://incaglossary.com/p/pachacamac.md) and Pachayachachi are
attributes of the deity. *Pacha* means time or place, also the
universe. *Kamak* is the Ruler, *Yachachi* is the Teacher.
‘The Ruler and Teacher of the Universe.' [HOI]
Wiracocha seems to be allied to the creator [Con Ticci](https://incaglossary.com/k/kontiki.md) (or [Thunapa](https://incaglossary.com/t-prime/thunapa-wiracocha.md)) worshipped
by the Indians of the [altiplano](https://incaglossary.com/a/altiplano.md).
Acknowledged by all the peoples of the southern Andes as the creator of
the universe. He was known as the Lord of Divination and the Seasons.
Although the Incas built temples to him, he was overshadowed in terms
of public ceremonial by other gods. No great estates were assigned to
the upkeep of his places of worship as they were for other deities --
an omission the Incas justified by claiming that, as he was the creator
of everything, he had need of nothing. [IAWS] Once
[pre-Conquest] included characteristics of tricksters. [RTZ1] *Fat of
the lake/sea*, sometimes also translated as *foam* or *fire
lake*; the androgynous creator god revered at [Tiwanako](https://incaglossary.com/t/tiwanako.md), among other places; said to be
the architect, engineer, and builder of Lake Titicaca, Wiraqocha seems
to have interacted with humans and “walked among them,” especially at
Tiwanako, of which Wiraqocha is the legendary founder; [Pachakuteq](https://incaglossary.com/p/pachacutiinca.md) instated Wiraqocha as
primary god of the Inka, superseding their traditional worship of [Inti](https://incaglossary.com/i/inti.md); Wiraqocha is represented (as on the
primary gate at Tiwanako) surrounded by a legion of angels (*see*, [sunkasapa](https://incaglossary.com/s/sunkasapa.md) for image) and holding two
staffs; now used as a less specific term for God/Goddess, supreme deity
or divinity, creator; also, used as a title of respect for an honored
man. [ANON1]
(2) The elliptical journey of the earth around the sun and of our star
system around the center of the galaxy; thus it is also the elliptical [energy bubble](https://incaglossary.com/p/poqpo.md) around the body. [QP]
(3) Used today as the equivalent of *mister* or *sir*,
having more to do with a person's rank than his color. [CSCR]
Used to denote a White man, now often used pejoratively or for usurper
and invader. [THIM]
(*See*,
 [huaira-cucha](https://incaglossary.com/h/huaira-cucha.md).)

## [Wiracochas](https://incaglossary.com/w/wiracochas.md)

An ancient culture that built [Tiwanako](https://incaglossary.com/t/tiwanako.md).
 FOG

## [Wiracocha Inca](https://incaglossary.com/w/wiracochainca.md)

The eighth semi-legendary [Inca](https://incaglossary.com/i/inca.md) ruler from
the early 15th Century. His name has blurred the distinction between
god and man. [MAN]

- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/wiracochainca.jpg — Wiracocha Inca and [Ñust'as](https://incaglossary.com/n/nyusta.md).

## [wiracocha mermaid](https://incaglossary.com/w/wiracochamermaid.md)

(n) The most sublime and beautiful [mermaids](https://incaglossary.com/m/mermaid.md),
possessing great magical power. They live in beautiful underwater [cities](https://incaglossary.com/c/cities.md). [AYV]

- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/wiracochamermaids.jpg — Wiracocha Mermaids. A detail from a painting by [vegetalista](https://incaglossary.com/v/vegetalista.md) Pablo Amaringo of one of his visions. The white mermaids can be seen in the upper right corner. In the middle of the painting are the [yakurunas'](https://incaglossary.com/y/yakuruna.md) fierce dogs with piranha heads. Behind them are cats with the heads of [canero](https://incaglossary.com/c/canero.md). In the foreground are the [awka-sirenas](https://incaglossary.com/a/awkasirena.md), guardians of the yakuruna. [AYV]

## [Wiracocha Pachayachachic](https://incaglossary.com/w/wiracocha-pachayachachic.md)

*Great Lord and Instructor of the World*; another of
the many names of [Wiracocha](https://incaglossary.com/w/wiracocha.md). [MAN]

## [Wiracocha Temple](https://incaglossary.com/w/wiracochatemple.md)

(n) In Cacha, the ancient name of the current village of Raqchi, lies
the Wiracocha Temple, built on a plan different from that of any other
sacred building in Peru, of adobe rather than stone, in homage to the
Superior Invisible God of Andean people, [Apu Kon Tiki Wiracocha](https://incaglossary.com/a/apukontikiwiracocha.md). After
the appearance of a man who began performing miracles, the villagers
decided to stone him to death. They found him kneeling with arms
extended skyward and menaced him. Immediately, a fire rain fell. With
remorse the men left him alone. The stranger went toward the coast and
submerged into the ocean waters, disappearing forever. Thereafter, a
shrine was constructed in his memory, as well as the sculpture of a
stone idol. The pre-Incan origin of the site is evidence of the
antiquity of the belief in [Wiracocha](https://incaglossary.com/w/wiracocha.md). [MAN]

- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/adobewalls.jpg — Walls. Note the adobe construction.
- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/passageway.jpg — Passageway
- Image: https://incaglossary.com/images/W_files/templerecon.jpg — Artist's rendition of a reconstructed temple.

## [wira khoa, wira koya](https://incaglossary.com/w/wira-khoa.md)

(n) A
highland plant that has natural oil that the people believe is the fat
of [Pachamama](https://incaglossary.com/p/pachamama.md); it is aromatic when
burned. [IGMP]

## [wirapiricuq, virapirico, wirapirico](https://incaglossary.com/w/wirapiricuq.md)

(n) A [shaman](https://incaglossary.com/s/shaman.md) who
would do [divination](https://incaglossary.com/d/divination.md) watching the
smoke produced by burning llama fat. [DYE]  A
shaman who obtained information by studying the smoke produced by the
burning of fat. [MHP]

## [wiska despacho](https://incaglossary.com/w/wiskadespacho.md)

(n) A [despacho](https://incaglossary.com/d/despacho.md) used to capture, close
in on, imprison, and kill the momentum of disruptive energies. It is
not for protection from direct [sorceric](https://incaglossary.com/s/sorcery.md)
attack. [JLH]
(*Compare*,
 [kuti despacho](https://incaglossary.com/appendix/j#kutidespacho).)

## [witch , witchcraft](https://incaglossary.com/w/witch.md)

Languages: Eng

Used as denoting the black arts. Please
see, [witch](https://incaglossary.com/witch).

## [wito](https://incaglossary.com/w/wito.md)

*See*,
 [huito](https://incaglossary.com/h/huito.md). [THIM]

## [Wrinkle Face](https://incaglossary.com/w/wrinkle-face.md)

*See*, [Aia-Paec](https://incaglossary.com/a/aiapaec.md).

## Sources

- **ACAI**: The Andean Codex, J.E. Williams
- **ACES**: *At the Crossroads of Earth and Sky*, Urton
- **ADN**: azarius.net
- **ANON1**: anonymous donor 1. Click * for explanation.
- **AYV**: *Ayahuasca Visions,* Luna
- **CSCR**: *Cut Stones and Crossroads*, Wright
- **DPI**: davidpratt.info/andes2.htm
- **DYE**: Source not listed on the original Text Sources page.
- **EFD**: encyclopedia.thefreedictionary.com
- **FOG**: *Fingerprints of the Gods*, Hancock
- **GM**: www.gaiameditations.com
- **GPA**: *El primer nueva coronica y buen gobierno, *Poma de Ayala.
- **HOI**: *History of the Incas,* Sarmiento de Gamboa
- **IAWS**: *Mythology, Illustrated Anthology of World Myth & Storytelling*
- **IGMP**: *Andean Awakening*, Delgado
- **IPWY**: *Presence, the Inherence of the Prototype*……, Shepherd
- **JLH**: Jose Luis Herrera, various lectures
- **LDC**: www.labrynthina.com
- **MAN**: *Mythology of the American Nations*, Jones and Molyneaux
- **MBE**: home.earthlink.net/~megbeeler
- **MHP**: Rios, *The Master Healer in Peru*, www.onirogenia.com/chamanismos/el-maestro-curandero-en-el-peru-historia-medicina-y-magia/
- **NND**: www.netnaturdoktoren.dk/ordbog.htm
- **PGO**: Patt Grantham O’Neill, personal definitions I write when I cannot find a good one elsewhere.
- **PSL**: www.geocities.com/phillott/Bolivia/Dictionary02.htm  Bolivian Quechua
- **QISLI**: *Q'ero: In Search of the Last of the Incas*, Nava
- **QP**: *Quechua Phrasebook* , Coronel-Molina
- **RAVI**: *Religion in the Andes*, McCormack
- **RMFA**: Source not listed on the original Text Sources page.
- **ROR**: *Rituals of Respect*, Bolin
- **RS**: runasimi.de
- **RTZ1**: www.colorado.edu/Conferences/pilgrimage/papers/Zuidema.html
- **TAI**: *Tiwanaku: Ancestors of the Inca,* Young-Sánchez
- **THIM**: *The Three Halves of Ino Moxo*
- **TLD**: *Tri-Lingual Dictionary*, Hornberger
- **WIKI**: en.wikipedia.org (no www)
- **WOFW**: Source not listed on the original Text Sources page.
- **WPC**: www.pusinsuyu.com/english/html/wiphala.html
- **WQC**: www.qosqo.com
- **WWKN**: www.kachina.net/~alunajoy/awake.html