Nhanderu
Among the Tupi-Guarani Nhanderu is typically seen as the supreme creator deity, a primordial force from which all things came. From nothing he creates the first paradise, Yva rypy Tonde, dividing it among four primeval entities: Karai (fire), Jakaira (mist), Ñandu (sun), and Tupã (thunder). In another version of the myth, he creates Tupã to protect the skies, Iara to protect the waters, and Caipora to protect the forests. He is credited with creating anhang or añã, the soul, and from the first two souls arose anhandeci, matter. Yet another variation of his myth attributes a 'shadow' to Nhanderu, a figure known as Nhanderu Mbaecuaá, who may also be the same as another figure known as Xariã, representing his darker half. The two become co-husbands to a wife named Nhandecy. When indigenous Guarani were forced to accept Christianity it was Tupã who assumed the role of their 'god', despite Nhanderu being a closer comparison to the Christian God.
Pantheon: Tupi-Guarani
Domain or Function: Creator of the universe and supreme being, creates human souls.
Alternate Names: Nhãnderu Tenondé, Ñamandu Ru Ete, Namandu, Nhamandu, Nhanderuvuçú, Nhamandú, Yamandú, Nhandejara, Ñanderuvusu.
Character Traits: He is seen as the benevolent father of all humans and the universe.
Visual Traits: Not depicted much in art, however in some stories he is said to have appeared as a hummingbird.
Symbolism: Hummingbird, feathered headdress, ritual scepter.
Sources: 1 2 3 4 5 6
