By Starr Muranko, Children of the 7 Rays

One of the questions I often get asked within conversations about entering a ceremony or exploring Indigenous and Andean wisdom is: What does “protocol” truly mean?

In many Indigenous cultures across the world, protocol is an essential part of how sacred knowledge, ceremonial practices, and relationships are carried. In its simplest form, protocol means doing things in a good way—a way grounded in respect, reverence, and right relationship with the land, the teachings, the Elders, and the spiritual world. Protocol is not merely a set of rules; it is a way of carrying ourselves with intention, awareness, and heart.

Understanding Protocol When Entering Sacred Spaces

Within Indigenous knowledge systems and the Andean lineage, protocol shapes how we enter sacred spaces, how we receive teachings, and how we walk with them. It guides our behaviour, our presence, and our relationships.

Protocol is more than a set of actions—it is a way of living in harmony with:

  • Mother Earth
  • Sacred teachings
  • The unseen spiritual realms
  • Our own inner landscape

These ways have been practiced for thousands of years because they work. They help us stay grounded, respectful, and conscious when engaging in spiritual learning or ceremony.

Whenever you enter a ceremonial space or engage with a cultural tradition outside of your own, protocol teaches us to move with humility:

  • Listen deeply
  • Observe what is happening
  • Follow the guidance of Elders, teachers, and tradition-holders

These practices help us stay aligned with the lineage and the intention of the ceremony.

In some Andean contexts, for example, practices may be opened and closed with a prayer or an expression of sacred gratitude such as “Añay”, in the Quechua language. This is an example of protocol—a gesture that connects heart, land, and lineage.

You are always welcome to participate if it feels aligned for you. What matters most is understanding the meaning and purpose behind each action.

If you are new to these teachings or entering Indigenous or Andean cultural spaces for the first time, here are a few guiding principles:

  • Take your time. There is no rush on the spiritual path.
  • Ask questions. Curiosity is a sign of humility and respect.
  • Observe. Watch what others are doing. Notice the gestures, language, and rhythm of the space.

These simple practices help cultivate awareness and ensure that one engages in a way that is respectful and aligned. In a cohesive community,  guidance and care are offered to support ones learning and growth.

Understanding Protocol When Receiving or Sharing Indigenous Teachings 

In many lineages, teachings are considered living medicines carried with care and responsibility. Not everything that is learned is meant to be shared freely or publicly.

A fundamental teaching around protocol is this:

If you feel called to share what you have been taught, first seek permission.

This practice honours the integrity of the lineage and ensures that teachings are not taken out of context, misused, or passed along in a way that does not align with their purpose.

This is not a restriction—it is an act of reciprocity, respect, and cultural continuity.

Protocol is about Relationships, Not Rules

In Western contexts, protocol is often understood as rules or procedures. But within Indigenous and Andean worldviews, protocol is best understood as relationship.

It is a way of tending to the sacred.

Protocols help us honour our relationships with:

  • Ourselves and our own healing
  • Mother Earth (Pachamama)
  • Sacred teachings and lineages
  • Spiritual forces larger than our human experience

These are the foundations of Andean spirituality, sacred reciprocity, and right relationship (Ayni). They guide how we walk when entering deeper spiritual spaces and how we hold what is given to us.

How Protocol Matters in Indigenous and Andean Teachings

Understanding protocol offers a foundation for entering sacred spaces, teachings, and relationships with care. In many Indigenous and Andean traditions, protocol is a living expression of:

Protocol is a living expression of:

  • Respect
  • Presence
  • Reciprocity
  • Connection
  • Humility

It protects the teachings.
It honours the lineages.
It guides us into deeper relationship with the sacred.

Most of all, protocol is a way of walking in a good way.

ABOUT STARR + CHILDREN OF THE SEVEN RAYS

Children of the Seven Rays was co-founded in 2006 by Andean Wisdom keeper Jhaimy Alvarez-Acosta and community leader Starr Muranko. Dedicated to sharing Andean Wisdom Teachings to empower & inspire your life, they offer amazing online and in-person classes (Vancouver area), as well as workshops, and retreats internationally. Find out more about how you can join their community or attend one of their upcoming events to deepen your connection to Mother Earth, and live in right-relationship with all of life.