Remaining Amchis of Spiti Cling to Ancient Tradition: Ancient Legacy Still Beating
In the heart of the Himalayas, nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes and Buddhist monasteries, lies the remote valley of Spiti. Here, the Amchi system stands as a testament to a slower, deeper kind of wisdom, one rooted in nature, tradition, and compassion.
The Amchi system, also known as Sowa Rigpa or the Ancient Science of Healing, operates according to its own rules, traditions, norms, and sense of order. It came into being about 2500 years ago and was initially passed on by lineage. In Spiti, the knowledge of Sowa Rigpa is usually passed on from the father to the eldest son in the family, but in recent times, daughters have also started learning and carrying on the practice.
The four tantras of Tibetan medicine are the foundational texts covering the core principles, theory, diagnosis, and treatment methods of Sowa Rigpa. The Root Tantra (rTsa rGyud) discusses the types of illnesses in present and future times, in humans and animals alike, and predicts imbalances in the body caused by the different elements. The Subsequent Tantra (Phyi ma rGyud) focuses on the identification of medicinal plants and the making of medicines, telling which medicine to use for what and the quantity that should be prescribed to a patient. The Explanatory Tantra (bS`ad rGyud) delves deeper into ways of identifying illnesses through methods like pulse reading, urine observations, and genetic history. Lastly, the Oral Instruction (Man ngag rGyud) helps the student focus on the practical application of the first two tantras.
One such practitioner of Sowa Rigpa is Norbu ji, who mastered the ancient healing system in Dharamshala. However, his journey began in Spiti, where he was taught about illnesses and diagnosis by his family and senior Amchis from the valley. Despite losing his father at a young age, leaving him without guidance as he started practicing as an Amchi, Norbu ji was encouraged to continue his practice by the village deity.
In Spiti, the Amchi system works on barter, with people giving what they can in return for treatment, such as a sack of rice or help when needed. This practice reflects the enduring spirit of healers in Spiti, who serve not for profit, but for purpose.
The relevance of the Amchi system's knowledge feels more urgent than ever. With only 4-5 practicing Amchis in Spiti, a decrease from about 24 in Norbu ji's father's time, efforts are being made to preserve and promote this ancient healing system. The Ministry of Ayush recognizes Amchis and has set up a Sowa Rigpa institute in Ladakh to promote quality education and research facilities. The Indian Ministry of AYUSH also supports and recognizes the Amchi system in Spiti for diagnosing diseases.
One of the surviving Amchis in Spiti is Chhering Norbu (Smanla Khang Gyu ngul). His wisdom and dedication to the Amchi system serve as a beacon of hope for the future of traditional healing in Spiti. Modern healthcare may have something to learn from the enduring spirit of healers in Spiti, who continue to serve their communities with compassion and wisdom, rooted in centuries-old traditions.
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