EncounteringSupai: An Ecology of Spiritual Perception in the Ecuadorian Amazon

Abstract

Abstract In this article I set out to draw an “ecology” of spiritual perception among the Runa of the Ecuadorian Amazon. In particular, I look at the ways in whichsupaibeings—forest spirits—are perceived by the Runa through two main sensory modalities: smelling and dreaming. Inspired by recent advances in the anthropology of religious learning, I then explore how certain Runa people—those who have undertaken a bodily training known assasi—are more likely than others to encountersupaibeings. This ritual training is conceived ascorporeallearning. I conclude by suggesting that attention and self‐attention developed during such corporeal practices play a central role in the perception of forest spirits. [spirits, perception, attention, learning, Amazonia]

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