Introduction
In central Australia, the Arrernte people have an ancient legend that tells of a mysterious Rainbow Serpent who created rivers, mountains, and life. This story is filled with natural wonders and mystical powers, revealing the deep reverence the Arrernte people have for the land and life.
The Legend of the Rainbow Serpent of the Arrernte
Long ago, before the world was formed, the land was shrouded in darkness and chaos. In this darkness, a giant Rainbow Serpent named Warlun lay sleeping. Warlun’s body was covered in shimmering, colorful scales, and whenever it moved, a beautiful rainbow would appear in the sky.
One day, Warlun awoke from its slumber, feeling a powerful urge to create. It decided to transform the chaos into a world full of life. Warlun used its massive body to move across the land, carving out winding rivers and towering mountains wherever it went.
As Warlun journeyed across the land, it encountered many other animals and spirits. Some became Warlun’s friends and helpers, while others were jealous and fearful of its power. Among them was a giant eagle named Karaku, whose feathers glowed and whose eyes burned like flames. Karaku was envious of Warlun’s creative power and decided to stop it.
One day, Karaku flew in front of Warlun, spreading its massive wings to block its path. With a mocking tone, Karaku said, “Warlun, do you think you can change this land all by yourself? Your power is limited and cannot truly create life.”
Warlun looked at Karaku, a hint of anger in its eyes, but replied calmly, “Karaku, my power comes from the union of the earth and sky. Everything I do is to create a more beautiful and vibrant world.”
Karaku sneered, “Then let’s see whose power is greater.”
With that, Karaku attacked Warlun. It struck with sharp claws and powerful wings, trying to overpower Warlun. Warlun fought back with its strong body and cunning. The battle was fierce, and every clash between Warlun and Karaku shook the earth, with lightning and thunder filling the sky.
The fight lasted for days, leaving both Warlun and Karaku exhausted. At that moment, Warlun let out a deep roar, and its body erupted in a blinding rainbow light. The light struck Karaku’s eyes, temporarily blinding it. Seizing the opportunity, Warlun used its tail to strike Karaku away.
Karaku let out a cry of pain and fell to the ground. It struggled to rise, looking at Warlun with anger but knowing it had lost. Karaku lowered its head, acknowledging its defeat. Warlun did not pursue further but spoke gently, “Karaku, we do not need to be enemies. This world is vast enough for both of us to create a beautiful future together.”
After a moment of silence, Karaku nodded, agreeing to work with Warlun. From that day on, Warlun and Karaku became allies, working together to create a vibrant and beautiful world.
Warlun continued to move across the land, carving more rivers and mountains with its body. It brought rain with the rainbow’s light, allowing plants to flourish and animals to thrive on the new land. Karaku soared in the sky, reflecting sunlight onto the earth with its feathers, providing plants with abundant light.
Through the combined efforts of Warlun and Karaku, the land became more beautiful, and life more abundant. The Arrernte villagers saw this transformation, their hearts filled with gratitude and reverence. They built many altars to worship Warlun and Karaku, thanking them for bringing prosperity and life to the land.
One day, Warlun felt its task was complete and decided to return to the depths of the earth to rest. Warlun said to Karaku, “My friend, my task is done, and now it is time for me to rest. I hope you will continue to guard this land and keep it vibrant.”
Karaku nodded, promising to watch over the land. Warlun slowly descended into the depths of the earth, its body becoming still once more, but its rainbow light continued to shine in the sky, symbolizing its creative power.
From that day on, the story of Warlun was passed down through generations of the Arrernte people, symbolizing courage, wisdom, and the power of nature. This legend is not merely a myth but a testament to the reverence and love for nature and life.
