Tepi Applicator

Name: Tepi Applicator | The Ceremonial Sacred Medicine Tools Shop | Chakana Journey | Love Nature
Price: 86.99 USD
Availability: InStock

Tepi Applicator made of Llama Bone and Yellow Stone | Decorated with Healer Snake Figure, Peruvian Turquoise and Coca Leaf Figure

BONE TEPI APPLICATOR

Connection to Ancestors: Using bone as a material for sacred tools is a practice found in many cultures. Bone connects us to the past, to our ancestors, and to the cycles of life and death. A bone tepi applicator can be seen as a bridge to ancestral wisdom.

Strength and Durability: Bone is a strong and durable material, symbolizing resilience, longevity, and the enduring nature of spirit.

Honoring the Animal Realm: When made from animal bone, the tepi applicator serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all life forms. It can also be seen as a way to honor the spirit of the animal from which the bone was taken.

Rapé Administration: The primary use of the tepi applicator is for administering rapé. Rapé is considered a sacred medicine, believed to align the user with their higher self, clear negative energies, and open up the chakras.

Grounding: Bone, coming from the earth and returning to it, symbolizes grounding. Using a bone tepi can symbolize the grounding effects of the rapé medicine, connecting the user to the earth and the present moment.

Cycle of Life: Bone, being the inner structure that supports life but also remains after death, is a potent symbol of the life-death-rebirth cycle. It represents the transient nature of life and the eternal aspect of spirit.

Transformation: The process of creating a tool from bone can symbolize transformation, turning something from its natural state into a tool for spiritual practice.

When using tools like the bone tepi, it’s essential to approach the practice with respect, understanding its cultural and spiritual significance. The tepi and rapé are sacred to many indigenous tribes, and their use outside of these traditional contexts should be done with reverence and a genuine intention for healing and spiritual growth.

** Each item that you buy from my shop helps support indigenous culture and arts.

SNAKE

The snake holds deep spiritual meaning across many cultures and traditions, often embodying powerful symbolism related to transformation, healing, wisdom, and life force energy. While its interpretation can vary depending on the cultural context, the snake is generally viewed as a potent symbol of both creation and destruction, representing the cyclical nature of life and spiritual evolution.

Spiritual Meaning of the Snake

Transformation and Rebirth

Shedding the Skin: One of the most recognized symbols of the snake is its ability to shed its skin, which represents transformation, renewal, and rebirth. Just as the snake discards its old skin, we too can shed old patterns, beliefs, or parts of ourselves that no longer serve us. This process is often seen as a spiritual awakening or personal evolution.
Cycles of Life: The snake is a powerful reminder of the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. It teaches us that endings are not final but a necessary part of new beginnings and growth.

Healing and Medicine

Symbol of Healing (Caduceus): In many cultures, especially in Greek mythology, the snake is associated with healing and medicine. The Caduceus, a symbol of two intertwined snakes, is still used today to represent the medical profession. The snake’s connection to healing comes from its regenerative abilities, symbolizing recovery, renewal, and the healing process.
Spiritual Healing: The snake can also represent spiritual healing, guiding us through the emotional, mental, or spiritual healing journey. Its energy is seen as purifying, helping to release toxic energies and promote holistic well-being.

Wisdom and Knowledge

Keeper of Ancient Wisdom: In many indigenous traditions, the snake is regarded as a guardian of ancient knowledge and hidden truths. Its association with the earth and its instinctive, primal nature connects it to deep wisdom about life, nature, and the universe. The snake can symbolize the wisdom gained through inner exploration and spiritual journeys.
Spiritual Insight: The snake’s ability to navigate both the earth and hidden places reflects its role as a symbol of spiritual insight, intuition, and mystical knowledge. It encourages individuals to go within, listen to their inner wisdom, and trust their instincts.

Kundalini Energy and Life Force

Kundalini Awakening: In Hindu and yogic traditions, the snake is intimately linked with Kundalini energy—the life force or divine energy said to lie coiled at the base of the spine. When this energy is awakened, it rises up through the body’s energy centers (chakras) like a snake, leading to spiritual enlightenment, heightened awareness, and self-realization.
Creative and Sexual Energy: The snake is also a symbol of primal life force, representing both creative and sexual energy. It embodies the raw, instinctual power within each person, which, when harnessed, can lead to spiritual growth and creative expression.

Protection and Power

Guardian Spirit: In many cultures, the snake serves as a protector or guardian spirit. It is believed to defend sacred spaces and individuals from harm, symbolizing both spiritual and physical protection. Snakes are often depicted as guarding treasure, sacred knowledge, or spiritual gateways.
Symbol of Power: The snake represents both creative and destructive power. Its ability to strike swiftly and with precision makes it a symbol of personal power, resilience, and the ability to navigate life’s challenges with grace and precision.

Duality and Balance

Life and Death: The snake embodies duality—life and death, light and darkness, good and evil. It often appears as a symbol of paradox, representing both creation and destruction, healing and harm. This dual nature reminds us of the balance necessary in life, where opposites coexist and are integral to the flow of existence.
Earth and Spirit: Snakes are often depicted as moving effortlessly between the earth (ground) and spirit (sky or water), symbolizing the balance between the material and spiritual realms. They guide us in integrating the physical and spiritual aspects of ourselves.

Fertility and Creation

Creator Symbol: In many cultures, snakes are associated with fertility, creation, and life-giving forces. They are often linked with gods or goddesses of creation and are seen as symbols of the earth’s fertility, representing the creative potential that exists in all living beings.
Phallic Symbol: The snake is sometimes interpreted as a phallic symbol, representing masculine energy, virility, and fertility. However, it can also represent feminine creative energy, especially when associated with goddesses like the ancient Minoan Snake Goddess.

Connection to the Underworld and Rebirth

Underworld Guardian: In some traditions, the snake is seen as a guardian of the underworld, representing the forces of death and the afterlife. It can guide souls through the darkness, helping them transition into the next phase of existence. As a symbol of death and rebirth, the snake teaches us to embrace transformation and the inevitability of change.
Shamanic Journeying: In shamanic traditions, the snake often acts as a guide during journeys into the spiritual underworld, where individuals face their shadow side, heal from past traumas, and emerge transformed.

Temptation and Change

Symbol of Temptation (Adam and Eve): In some religious contexts, such as the story of Adam and Eve in the Bible, the snake is portrayed as a figure of temptation and change. It invites individuals to confront their desires, shadow selves, and the choices that shape their spiritual journeys. Though sometimes seen negatively, this aspect of the snake can represent necessary challenges and opportunities for growth.

Divine Feminine and Goddess Energy

Feminine Power: In many cultures, especially in ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia, Crete, and Egypt, the snake is associated with goddess energy and the divine feminine. Goddesses like Isis, the Minoan Snake Goddess, and others are often depicted with snakes, representing feminine wisdom, intuition, fertility, and the mysteries of life and death.
Womb Symbolism: The snake’s ability to coil into spirals is sometimes connected with womb symbolism, representing the mysteries of birth, nurturing, and the cycles of life. It symbolizes the deep feminine power of creation, regeneration, and life-giving forces.

Cultural Variations of Snake Symbolism

Mesoamerican Cultures (Quetzalcoatl):

In Mesoamerican traditions, the feathered serpent god Quetzalcoatl is a major deity symbolizing both the sky (spiritual) and the earth (physical). He is associated with wisdom, fertility, the arts, and the cycles of time.

Hinduism (Naga):

In Hindu mythology, the Naga are serpent deities associated with water, fertility, and protection. They are often depicted as divine protectors of treasure or sacred places, representing both spiritual and material abundance.

Ancient Egypt (Uraeus):

In ancient Egyptian culture, the cobra was a symbol of sovereignty, royalty, and divine authority. The Uraeus—a cobra depicted on the pharaoh’s crown—represented protection, power, and the divine right to rule.

Celtic Tradition:

In Celtic mythology, the snake was seen as a symbol of healing, rebirth, and the cyclical nature of life. It was also associated with the earth and sacred wisdom.

Summary of Spiritual Meaning of the Snake

Transformation and Rebirth: Symbolizes the ability to shed old ways and embrace new beginnings.
Healing and Medicine: Associated with healing, regeneration, and spiritual purification.
Wisdom and Knowledge: Represents ancient wisdom, inner knowledge, and spiritual insight.
Kundalini and Life Force Energy: Embodies the awakening of spiritual energy and consciousness.
Protection and Power: Acts as a guardian spirit, offering protection and representing personal power.
Duality and Balance: Reflects the balance of life and death, creation and destruction, masculine and feminine.
Fertility and Creation: Symbolizes the creative forces of life and fertility.
Connection to the Underworld: Represents death, the afterlife, and transformation through spiritual journeys.

In essence, the snake is a profound spiritual symbol of life’s cyclical nature, emphasizing themes of transformation, healing, wisdom, and the balance between opposing forces. Whether in personal or collective spiritual journeys, the snake calls for embracing change, awakening to deeper knowledge, and aligning with the energies that sustain both physical and spiritual life.

HOW TO USE TEPI APPLICATOR?

The tepi applicator, used in traditional ceremonies, is a tool to administer rapé (pronounced “ha-peh”), a sacred plant medicine made from powdered tobacco and other herbs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on using it ceremonially:

1. Intentional Grounding Practices for Giver and Receiver

Energetic Clearing Before Starting: Both the giver and receiver may take a few minutes before the ceremony to cleanse their energy fields. This can involve brushing their hands over their body or visualizing a purifying light to release any energies that may interfere with the ceremony.
Grounding Elements: It’s beneficial for both participants to physically ground themselves by sitting directly on the earth if outdoors, or by placing a grounding object (such as a crystal, feather, or stone) on their lap to help maintain connection to the earth.

2. Setting a Strong Sacred Container and Intentions Together

Creating a Ritual Circle: Some ceremonies begin by symbolically setting a boundary, either by sitting in a circle of natural elements (such as stones, leaves, or flower petals) or by verbally acknowledging that the space is now sacred. This practice, especially in groups, helps bring everyone into a focused mindset.
Shared Intentions: The giver may lead the receiver in a brief meditation or a simple spoken intention. Sometimes, the giver speaks a blessing over the rapé powder itself, asking for guidance, healing, or clarity to be delivered through the medicine.

3. Sacred Handling of the Rapé and the Tepi Aplicator

Handling the Medicine with Respect: In traditional practice, the rapé is seen as a sacred plant medicine, so the giver and receiver approach it reverently. Many will avoid touching it unnecessarily and hold it with both hands while making eye contact, as a form of “introducing” themselves to the medicine.
Mindful Loading of the Tepi Applicator: Loading the rapé into the tepi applicator is done with focus. Some people will briefly hold the applicator to their forehead or heart, silently conveying the intention to the medicine. The amount of rapé is carefully considered for the receiver’s experience level, as different types and doses can have very different effects.

4. Ceremonial Posture, Breathwork, and Attunement During Administration

Aligned Posture and Open Hands: The receiver sits with an upright posture, open hands resting on the thighs, palms up, signifying openness and readiness to receive. If they’re able, they may close their eyes and breathe deeply as they prepare to receive the rapé.
Breath and Attention: Before each blow, both giver and receiver take a few deep breaths together, synchronizing in preparation. The giver may take one deep breath in, and the receiver exhales fully to relax before the medicine enters. Focusing on breathwork helps both enter a shared rhythm, enhancing connection.
Strength and Rhythm of the Blow: The blow is steady, intentional, and rhythmic, not rushed. Experienced practitioners often say a quiet prayer or set an intention silently before each blow to bless and strengthen the effect of the medicine.

5. Guided Support and Observation During Integration

Immediate Integration and Release: Right after receiving, the receiver may experience sensations like heat, tingling, or pressure in the head or body. The giver often remains silent but watchful, offering subtle encouragement to relax and accept these sensations.
Physical and Emotional Release: Rapé sometimes triggers physical cleansing or emotional release, and participants may cough, tear up, or have spontaneous body movements. These are all seen as natural responses to the medicine’s effects, and the giver may gently remind the receiver to stay open to whatever comes up, supporting their process.
Assisting with Grounding if Needed: If the receiver seems overwhelmed, the giver can guide them to place a hand on their heart or belly to feel grounded or to visualize roots connecting them to the earth. Givers sometimes drum gently, hum, or place a grounding hand on the receiver’s back to provide stability and comfort.

6. Closing the Ceremony with Gratitude and Offerings

Expression of Gratitude to the Spirit of Rapé: Traditionally, gratitude is not only spoken but felt deeply. Both participants may bow or place their hands together in a gesture of thanks, either silently or verbally. Many traditions view this as an acknowledgment of the spirit of rapé and of nature.
Earth Offering: After expressing gratitude, some traditions include a small offering to the earth, such as leaving a pinch of rapé on the ground or burying a small stone, crystal, or flower as a gesture of respect and thanks.
Tepi Applicator Cleansing and Closing Prayer: Once the ceremony is complete, the tepi applicator is cleaned by blowing through it or passing it through smoke. A closing prayer or blessing is often offered to end the ceremony, sealing the experience. The participants may also drink water afterward to help ground and bring them fully back into their bodies.

Additional Notes on Safety and Respect

Checking Readiness: It’s essential to ensure that the receiver is open and willing to undergo the experience, as rapé can be intense, especially for those new to it. Honoring any concerns and explaining the process can provide comfort and trust.
Aftercare: Some effects can last for a while after the ceremony. The receiver may feel a need to rest, drink water, or spend quiet time reflecting. The giver may offer water or a gentle suggestion to sit in silence to fully integrate the experience.

These additional steps and perspectives highlight how each element of a tepi applicator ceremony can enhance the experience’s depth, transforming it into a journey of connection, respect, and healing. When approached with mindful presence and reverence, the tepi and rapé can become powerful tools for grounding and spiritual insight.

DISCLAIMER

• Actual colors may vary a little from those shown in the pictures due to the nature of the photography and monitor color settings.
• All of our products are handmade, thus they may not be exactly as shown in the photos. Pictures displayed in listings are a reference only. Therefore, it may be minor changes.

FOR OUR INTERNATIONAL BUYERS

• Please be aware that import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the buyer’s responsibility. We strongly recommend all of our customers check with their own country’s customs office to determine these additional costs prior to buying.

SHIPPING & TRACKING INFORMATION

• Shipping:
– We use the Peruvian Postal Service (Serpost) to ship all of our products worldwide.
– The regular shipping time is 10-20 days from the shipping date. However, sometimes shipping takes longer due to the specific transit time set by each country’s postal service, as well as for each country’s customs procedures.

• Tracking:
– You can get information on your shipping status using your tracking number “RRXXXXXXXXXPE” in the link below:
https://www.serpost.com.pe/Cliente/SegumientoLinea

RETURN & EXCHANGE POLICY

• Returns:
– Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs, and
– Buyers are responsible for any loss in value if an item isn’t returned in its original condition.

• Exchanges:
We may exchange an item for another one of the same type provided that:
– The item is returned in its same original condition, and
– Buyers assume the total cost of the return shipping as well as the total cost of the new shipping.

For this, we kindly ask that before asking for the exchange take into account the following:
– The items’ actual colors may differ from those shown in the pictures due to the nature of the photography and monitor color settings, and
– Most importantly, please take into account that ALL OF OUR PRODUCTS ARE HANDMADE, thus they may not be exactly as shown in the listing photos, pictures are a reference only; thus, it may be minor changes in color tones, sizes, and shapes.

• Failed Delivery:
Please be aware that sometimes items are returned to Chakana Journey due to failed delivery for different reasons such as “unclaimed”, “addressee not available at the time of delivery”, “failed delivery attempt”, “unsuccessful delivery”, among others. In these events, we offer you two options:
– We may ship again the item provided that buyers assume the total cost of the item’s new shipping, or
– We may refund the amount of the item but we will deduct the actual and total initial item’s shipping cost.

• We strive our best to satisfy our customers to the fullest. However, in case you are not satisfied, please contact us immediately and we will do everything possible to provide you with a solution, always trying to offer you the best option.

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