Chía (goddess)

Chía is the name of the Moon goddess in the religion of the Muisca, an indigenous people who inhabited the Altiplano Cundiboyacense in the central highlands of present-day Colombia. She was a significant figure in their cosmology and mythology.

Role and Attributes:

Chía was associated with the moon, night, fertility, and the female principle. She was often depicted as a beautiful woman radiating lunar light. As the goddess of the moon, she governed the cycles of time, influencing agriculture and the fertility of the land. She was considered the antithesis of Sué, the Sun god, representing the balance of opposing forces in the Muisca worldview.

Mythology and Legends:

Muisca mythology tells of the creation of the world by Chiminigagua, a supreme being. After the creation, Chía and Sué emerged to illuminate the earth. Legends often portray Chía and Sué engaged in a perpetual dance across the sky, creating day and night. Some accounts depict a rivalry or conflict between the two deities.

Worship and Rituals:

The Muisca people held Chía in high regard, offering her prayers and sacrifices. Temples dedicated to her were built in areas associated with the moon, such as the town of Chía, which is named after her. Rituals honoring Chía were often performed during the full moon, seeking her blessings for fertility and prosperity.

Modern Significance:

The name "Chía" retains cultural significance in modern Colombia, particularly in the region historically inhabited by the Muisca. The town of Chía remains a testament to her enduring presence in the collective memory of the area.