Do you know the difference? Winter worship vs. veneration?
|
|
Time to read 1 min
Honor vs. Worship: A Different Look at Winti
It's often said that Winti is idolatry. That those who delve into Winti are engaged in the worship of gods other than the Creator. But is that true?
Anyone who delves into this religion quickly discovers that it revolves around respect, awareness, and acknowledging the invisible world that helps and protects us. We offer a Teri , we count our winti, we honor them because, thanks to the Creator, they are present in our lives.
A comparison with Christianity
In Christianity, people often speak of the Holy Spirit. They receive inspiration, guidance, and protection. But in Winti, we also recognize this connection. We call them bigi suma —ancestors, spiritual guides. And yes, they too give us inspiration, protection, and insights.
When Christianity shows reverence for Jesus, who was sent by God, we show reverence for our winti, who were sent by the same Creator. So the basis is not as different as one often thinks.
Source: The Wild Coast. "Slave Festival, Benoit 1930"
What is honor?
- Honoring means acknowledging the presence , power , and contribution of a being who helps you—without placing them above the Creator. It's an expression of respect and gratitude. Setting up a tafra ( spiritual table )/altar, lighting a candle, or offering a drink are ways to show you appreciate their energy.
- It's like thanking someone who helped you through difficult times: you show that you see it, that it matters.
What is worship/idolatry?
- Veneration or worship goes a step further. It places someone or something on a divine pedestal, as an object of worship. This means you consider this entity sacred or divine —as a higher power itself.
- In many religions, worship is reserved for God, or a divine figure seen as God 's representative , such as Jesus.
The difference between honoring and venerating
The key difference is the position you assign to whom you address. Honoring is showing respect to a guiding force, while acknowledging that ultimate power lies with the Creator. Venerating is placing that force itself on the level of divinity. In the Winti religion, wintis are not worshipped, but honored —as helpers, protectors, and messengers serving the One.
This should not be missing in your wardrobe: