Supernatural Powers, Deities and Sacred Sites
Definitions
Supernatural Powers -the belief in existence outside the natural world/beyond natural force that we as humans cannot explain
Deities - a God or Goddess
Sacred Texts - writing that is venerated for the worship of a deity
Supernatural Powers -the belief in existence outside the natural world/beyond natural force that we as humans cannot explain
Deities - a God or Goddess
Sacred Texts - writing that is venerated for the worship of a deity
What is the main role of Deities in the Mayan Religion?
The ancient Maya had a complex pantheon of deities whom they worshipped and offered human sacrifices. Rulers were believed to be descendants of the gods and their blood was the ideal sacrifice, either through personal bloodletting or the sacrifice of captives of royal blood. The gods were involved in every aspect of the life of the Maya. They controlled the weather, the harvest, they dictated one’s mate, presided over every birth, and were present at one’s death. They were a huge part of the Mayan Religion.
Research five deities and for each create a statistic card showing their purpose and/or supernatural powers
Itzamna -Itzamna was one of the most important deities of Mayan mythology. The ruler of the heavens and of day and night, he was often shown as a pleasant, toothless old man with a large nose. In various myths, Itzamna appears as a culture hero who gave the Maya the foundations of civilization. According to legend, he taught them to grow corn, to write, to use calendars, and to practice medicine. He also introduced a system for dividing up the land, and he established rituals for religious worship.
Chac - Chac was the Maya god of rain, lightning, and storms. He is often shown holding jade axes and snakes that he used to throw at the clouds to produce rain. His actions assured the growth of crops as well as maintaining the natural cycles of life.
Ah Bolon Tzacab - This leaf-nosed God of farming was associated with royal power and the offering of human blood. Kings often held a sceptre (a ceremonial staff) in the shape of this God.
Ah K'in - Also known as Kinich Ahau, Ah K'in was the God of the son and controlled drought and disease. He was often shown as a man with a hooked nose.
Buluc Chabtan - This was the God of war, voilence and sudden death (including human sacrifices). He was typically seen with a black line down one cheek.