Ekeko

By Crusader1307

An early Pre-Columbian ''Deity'', ''Ekeko''was seen as a ''small, Elf-like'' Being, noted for it's ability to bring ''Plenty and Abundance''. Veneration evolved into the production of small Elfish statues (Icons), which carried small baskets. Believers only needed to place a sample of what they needed (rice, wheat etc), into the basket and make a suitable offering. This was tobacco. Normally, a cigarette is placed (unlit), into Ekeko's mouth for the request to be granted. Once a year, as prescribed – the cigarette must be lit. The Legend came from a particular battle between Tribal Columbians and their Spanish Invaders. A siege was laid on a city, into which no food or medicine was allowed. The Tribal Warriors would sneak into the city at night and place food at various Ekeko Shrines. When the starving population woke the next day, they found the food and attributed to Ekeko. Easily purchased today, most place money into Ekeko's baskets, in hopes of increasing their fortunes.