Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
RUNA INDIAN WOMEN
OF ECUADOR
Even the 'whitest' people of Loja are of dusky hue, showing a strong splash of Indian
blood. Religious fanaticism is one of the characteristics of all who possess this blood. Their
form of worshipping amounts practically to idolatry, for they adore hideously painted saints
and dolls, and are fond of pomp and processions, in connection with which usually goes a
drunken orgy.
I saw a procession in Loja in which the bishop took part. All the cracked and unmelodious
bells of the many churches were being hammered by the strong arms of Indians. Two bands
slowly shuffled along, each playing a different tune, whilst Indians with flutes and drums
madeupthefrontandrearoftheprocession.Thenativesofthetown,andhundredsofIndians
whohadflockedinfromfarandnearwerekneeling,orthrewthemselvesflatonthegroundas
thebishoppompouslypassed,blessingthem.Thepathhadliterallybeencoveredwithflowers
and sprinkled with scented water. By this time I was used to these processions, but never had
I seen one like this. I stood there, wondering if I was dreaming or awake, when an Ecuadorian
 
Search WWH ::




Custom Search