Language is not just a carrier of a given message but is an integral part of truth and reality
The introduction of "Filosofía Mapuche" by Mora Penros Ziley presents a profound exploration of language, contrasting Western languages with indigenous languages in their roles and perceptions.
Western languages are characterized as codes encompassing four primary functions. They are systems of rules and keys designed for transforming information, cultural conventions built on social agreements, mechanisms for communication within a culture, and mediums for creating realities and solidifying ideas into narratives. This perspective highlights the structured, rule-based nature of Western languages and their role in organizing and conveying standardized meanings.
On the other hand, indigenous languages are described as open systems of significations. They are seen as realms where the essence of being is revealed and expressed. Words in these languages are not merely carriers of messages but are deeply connected to the concept of being, serving as a medium to access deeper spiritual and existential truths. Indigenous languages are portrayed as instruments of sacred power, capable of inducing spiritual experiences and connecting with divine entities. They are also pathways for exploring new possibilities and are considered embodiments of the essence of being, offering a range of possibilities for exploration and understanding.
Western languages as a code
System of Rules and Keys: These languages serve to transfer and transform information systems from one order to another.
Cultural Convention: They are social constructs, serving as coordinators of coordination in society.
Communication Mechanisms: They function as symbolic instruments for message exchange within a culture.
Creators of Reality: These languages have a generative aspect, shaping realities and solidifying ideas into narratives. This dimension is considered the most important and prestigious, with historical roots tracing back to the ancient Greek concept of logos, where the word or reason was seen as divine.
Indigenous language as an open system of significations
Revelation and Representation of Being: The indigenous language is described as a place that reveals and showcases being. The word acts as the "house" of being, following Heidegger's philosophy.
Access to Divinity and Truth: It's a medium to reach the core of divinity and participate in its truth, using nature metaphors and the polysemy of its roots and phonemes.
Instrument of Sacred Power: The language serves as a tool to induce spiritual trances and bring divine entities closer.
Pathway for New Possibilities: It offers a guide to explore new possibilities within oneself.
Expression of the Essence: The indigenous language is considered an embodiment of being itself, disguised in linguistic form, offering a range of possibilities for exploration and understanding.