Nagual

In Mesoamerican and Toltec spiritual traditions, a *nagual* (from the Nahuatl word nāhualli) refers to a human being who can access spiritual power through transformation or deep connection with their tonal counterpart. This ability is not merely about shapeshifting but also about guiding spiritual development and fostering personal transformation by bridging the physical and metaphysical realms.[1][2]

Nagualism involves the belief that each person possesses a dual aspect: the tonal, representing their everyday awareness and ego, and the nagual, representing their deeper, limitless self.[3]

The nagual serves as a guide, helping individuals access hidden potential and spiritual insight by harmonizing these two aspects.[4]


The Nahuals described in the Borgia Codex, metamorphic creatures capable of changing their physical form into any other animal form or even into human forms at will.

In Mesoamerican folk religion, a nagual (pronounced [na'wal]) or nahual (both from the Nahuatl word nāhualli [naˈwaːlːi]) is a human being who has the power to shapeshift into their tonal animal counterpart. Nagualism is tied to the belief one can access power and spiritual insight by connecting with the tonal animal within.[5]

  1. ^ Mares, Théun (1999). Return of the Warriors. Lionheart Publishing. p. 45.
  2. ^ Castaneda, Carlos (1981). The Eagle's Gift. Simon & Schuster. p. 80.
  3. ^ Mares, Théun (1999). Return of the Warriors. Lionheart Publishing. p. 48.
  4. ^ Castaneda, Carlos (1987). The Power of Silence. Simon & Schuster. p. 102.
  5. ^ Nutini & Roberts 1993, p. 43.