Zantiritu

Ingot's song 'Zantiritu' is a powerful ode to the ancient wisdom and healing practices passed down through generations of women. The lyrics, sung in Basque, evoke a deep connection to the earth, nature, and the mystical knowledge of ancestors. The song begins with a call to the 'Emari, Amari, Mari,' figures who symbolize the nurturing and healing roles traditionally held by women. These figures are depicted as midwives and witches, who use herbs and ancient knowledge to heal both body and mind. The repetition of 'galtzea, galtzea' (losing, losing) underscores the fear of losing this invaluable wisdom.

The song also addresses the silencing of this healing power, with the line 'Isildua izan zan, isildua!' (It was silenced, silenced!). This reflects the historical persecution of women who practiced traditional medicine and were often labeled as witches. The call to 'askatu gaitasuna, dohaiak' (release the ability, the gifts) is a plea to reclaim and honor these lost traditions. The imagery of mountains and the four winds ('lau haizetara') symbolizes the widespread and enduring nature of this wisdom, which transcends time and geography.

In the latter part of the song, Ingot invokes the spirits of mothers, grandmothers, sisters, and daughters, emphasizing the continuity of this lineage. The lyrics 'argizaiolak piztu' (light the candles) and 'erre bazter ilunak' (burn the dark corners) suggest a ritualistic cleansing and illumination of hidden knowledge. The song concludes with a powerful incantation, 'Zantiritu, zana artez, zana bere lekue!' (Zantiritu, what was straight, what was in its place!), calling for the restoration of balance and the rightful place of this ancient wisdom in the world. 'Zantiritu' is a celebration of feminine strength, resilience, and the enduring power of ancestral knowledge to heal and transform.