Lof (Spanish:levo andlov) orcaví (Spanish:cahuín); formed the basic social organization of theMapuche,Mapuche-Huilliche and the extinctPicunche peoples, consisting of a familial clan or lineage that recognizes the authority of alonco (cacique). Thelof orcaví is formed by diverse families that share the same territory and who are considered mutually related, descended from a common ancestor. Severallof form arehue, and ninerehue formed theaillarehue. These formed one of the 3 or 5 great territorial confederations of the Mapuches, theButalmapu ("great earth").
The identity oflof was reinforced by the accomplishment of diverse community and festive activities.Lof habitually shared a uniquerehue, orMachi's altar, in which the more significant religious ceremonies were performed. The vitality of the clan shone in the accomplishment ofLof kudau, a type of retributive communitarian work, followed by a celebration with a feast and drinking, similar to themingaco of theQuechua.Lof kudau consisted usually of harvests, and other work that demanded large amounts of manpower, mainly in the fields of rich and prestigious personages of thelof: theulmenes andloncos, who could afford to provide enough food and drink to those who worked.
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