The Gate of Paradise: Secrets of Andean Shamanism

by Chamalu

The Andean shaman is emerging from his silence to share with Westerners his tenderness for an appreciation of the Earth. In the heart of the Andes a sacred place has been dedicated to this exchange, fulfilling an ancient prophecy. Chamalu is an Ouccha Indian born in Bolivia and trained in shamanism. He founded the Jananpacha (meaning paradise) community in Bolivia in 1990 and here shares the shaman's way of cherishing the Earth and honoring her sacred places.

160 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1997

Reviews

[Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I had to choose only five books to bring with me to a desert island, this would be one of them. Along with a few others, this book makes up what I might call my self-selected Bible. It is the voice of the indigenous man who has lived close to the land and the forest for eons speaking to modern man in his cities and busy with modern ways. It is both poignantly gentle and sternly direct. Lovingly, we are invited to join our ancestors in living in a way that is harmonious with the dance of the Universe, a way that is poetic and respectful of plant spirits. It is the kind of book that can be read one page at a time, over a long period of time because each paragraph is immensely rich and touches your heart. Consider yourself blessed if you get this book and open its pages with reverence...

[Maeve Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having a background understanding of Andean shamanism will give a deeper understanding of this book. I liked this book when I first read it. After studying Peruvian Andean shamanism I am getting so much more out of this book. This author expresses spiritual teachings in beautiful prose. I gave it to my friend who is also studying Anean shamanism. He carries it everywhere and reads it often. He loves it. The knowledge in the book can be understood on different levels from not knowing anything about Andean shamanism to having studied it for years. This is a profound book for those wanting to feel Andean shamanism.

[Aubrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely, transformative, and deeply important. I will probably re-read parts of this daily throughout the rest of my life - a book of truth and a bible of sorts.
I read this after spending time with the hechuan people in Peru. It is humbly and beautifully written by a wise indigenous Peruvian .His words share a simple philosophy on how to live in harmony with the earth and all living things and spirits. He reminds us of who we are and that it is never too late to remember and restore ourselves and our planet. This book is truly a gift.