Bleeding heart of darkness

The customs of the Waorani tribe in Ecuador.

You work for Maxus. You are a guest in Waorani territory. They expect you to show absolute respect for their customs, their belongings, their families, and especially their women.

All contacts with the Waorani should be avoided. However, if you have an unforeseen encounter with a Wao, keep calm. Remember that, in general, the Waorani are always armed with spears and shotguns for protection and hunting and that they speak loudly and make many gestures. You should not think that these are signs of attack. Do not show fear or make any gesture that might seem aggressive. Tell the Wao that you are his friend and, looking at his face, repeat these words: “Waponi, amigo Waorani, boto Maxus.” (“Greetings, Waorani friend, I am Maxus.”) Report to your supervisor so that he can talk to the Wao and resolve the situation.

The Waorani believe in common ownership. For them, everything belongs to everyone. Their concept of private property is not the same as ours. If you understand this idea, then you will also understand why they come to the camps and working areas and ask you for things. We are in their territory, and they consider our belongings to be for common use. Do not keep food in the open. To find food and not to take it is unthinkable for the Waorani. If there are any requests for tools, objects, or food, contact Maxus Community Relations personnel immediately. If the demand is urgent, offer the Waorani some food.

The Waorani's past is full of violence: tribal wars, fights with trespassers, and fights for personal revenge. Although nowadays the Waorani are better aligned with Western customs, they still firmly believe that an offense must be avenged and that, like good hunters, they must defend their women, territory, animals, and farms.

Like all human beings, the Waorani are jealous about women. Any insinuation could be interpreted as flirting. You must treat Waorani women the same way you would like strangers to treat your own wife and daughters.

You offend a Wao if you make a promise that you do not keep. Never offer something that you cannot give, and never lie just to get rid of a problem. Say simply “No” or “Wait, let me ask if I can do this.”

If you offend a Wao, he will never argue back; he will merely go away quietly. However, he might return without your knowledge for the purpose of killing. A Wao never threatens; he takes direct action.

You must respect the Waorani culture. Do not offend the Waorani and do not lie to them. Your life and your work depend on it. We and they are equals; our differences are in our respective cultures and histories. Maxus has confidence in you.

20 21

SEE ALSO: Ecuador; Ethnic relations; Huao Indians

Previous · Next