5.6 Mesoamerican underworld narratives
7 min read•august 21, 2024
Mesoamerican underworlds played a crucial role in ancient mythologies. These complex realms reflected beliefs about death, afterlife, and cosmic order, offering insights into cultural values and societal structures.
From the Aztec to the Maya , these underworlds featured multiple levels, challenging journeys, and powerful deities. They symbolized cycles of death and rebirth, connecting deeply to agricultural practices and cosmic balance.
Origins of Mesoamerican underworlds
- Mesoamerican underworlds form a crucial part of the region's mythological landscape, reflecting complex beliefs about death, afterlife, and cosmic order
- These underworld concepts intertwine with broader themes in Mesoamerican myth and literature, offering insights into cultural values and societal structures
Aztec underworld concepts
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- Mictlan serves as the primary underworld in Aztec mythology, ruled by the god
- Consists of nine distinct levels, each presenting unique challenges for the deceased
- Journey through Mictlan takes four years, with souls facing obstacles like rivers of blood and mountains of knives
- Reflects Aztec beliefs about the cyclical nature of life and death, emphasizing the importance of proper burial rites
Maya underworld beliefs
- Xibalba represents the Maya underworld, described in detail in the creation myth
- Governed by a pantheon of death gods, including Hun-Came and Vucub-Came
- Features multiple houses filled with trials and torments (House of Bats, House of Jaguars)
- Serves as a realm of transformation, where souls can be reborn or face eternal punishment
Olmec influence on underworlds
- Olmec civilization (1500-400 BCE) laid the foundation for later Mesoamerican underworld concepts
- Introduced the idea of a layered cosmos, with the underworld as a vital component
- Developed early iconography associated with death and the afterlife ()
- Established the concept of ruler-shamans who could communicate with the underworld, influencing later Maya and Aztec beliefs
Key deities and figures
- Underworld deities and mythological figures play central roles in Mesoamerican cosmology and literature
- These characters embody various aspects of death, rebirth, and the cyclical nature of existence
Lords of Xibalba
- One Hun-Ahpu and Seven Hun-Ahpu rule as the primary lords of Xibalba in Maya mythology
- Possess distinct personalities and domains, such as disease, sacrifice, and violent death
- Challenge and test souls entering the underworld through various trials and deceptions
- Represent the forces of death and decay that must be overcome for rebirth and renewal
Mictlantecuhtli and Mictecacihuatl
- Mictlantecuhtli serves as the Aztec god of death and ruler of Mictlan
- Often depicted as a skeletal figure adorned with eyes on his skull
- , his female counterpart, oversees the bones of the dead and presides over funeral rites
- Together, they maintain the balance between life and death in Aztec cosmology
Hero twins in mythology
- and feature prominently in the Maya Popol Vuh as hero twins
- Embark on a perilous journey through Xibalba, facing numerous challenges and deceptions
- Defeat the Lords of Xibalba through cunning and sacrifice, ultimately becoming the sun and moon
- Symbolize the triumph of light over darkness and the cyclical nature of cosmic renewal
Structure of Mesoamerican underworlds
- Mesoamerican underworlds possess complex structures reflecting cultural beliefs about the afterlife
- These mythological realms serve as settings for important narratives and religious concepts
Nine levels of Mictlan
- Itzcuintlan: first level, where souls cross a deep river aided by a red dog
- Tepectli Monamictlan: second level, featuring clashing mountains that threaten to crush the deceased
- Iztepetl: third level, characterized by sharp obsidian mountains that souls must navigate
- Itzehecayan: fourth level, where icy winds strip flesh from bones
- Paniecatacoyan: fifth level, featuring complete darkness and strong winds
- Timiminaloyan: sixth level, where arrows pierce the souls of the dead
- Teocoyocualloa: seventh level, where wild beasts devour hearts
- Izmictlan Apochcalolca: eighth level, where souls cross a river of blood
- Chicunamictlan: ninth and final level, where souls find rest and lose their memories
Xibalba's layout and regions
- Divided into multiple houses, each presenting unique challenges (House of Darkness, House of Knives)
- Features a central court where the Lords of Xibalba convene and judge souls
- Includes rivers of blood, pus, and scorpions that souls must cross
- Contains hidden traps and deceptions designed to confuse and torment the deceased
Symbolic elements and features
- Rivers and bodies of water represent boundaries between life and death
- Mountains and cliffs symbolize the difficult journey souls must undertake
- Darkness and cold embody the absence of life and vitality
- Animals (jaguars, bats) serve as guardians and manifestations of underworld forces
- Obsidian and flint represent sacrifice and the cutting away of mortal attachments
Underworld journeys and trials
- Underworld journeys form a central theme in Mesoamerican mythology and literature
- These narratives often serve as metaphors for personal transformation and cosmic renewal
Popol Vuh's underworld narrative
- Recounts the journey of the hero twins, Hunahpu and Xbalanque, through Xibalba
- Twins face a series of trials, including the Houses of Darkness, Knives, and Fire
- Overcome challenges through wit, skill, and self-sacrifice
- Ultimately defeat the Lords of Xibalba and ascend to become celestial bodies
Aztec afterlife journey
- Souls embark on a four-year journey through the nine levels of Mictlan
- Deceased must overcome obstacles like rivers of blood, mountains of knives, and fierce winds
- Journey reflects Aztec beliefs about purification and the cyclical nature of existence
- Proper burial rites and offerings aid the soul's passage through the underworld
Tests and challenges for souls
- Riddles and deceptions posed by underworld deities test the wisdom and character of the deceased
- Physical trials (navigating treacherous terrain, enduring extreme conditions) symbolize the soul's resilience
- Psychological challenges (facing one's fears, resisting temptation) represent spiritual growth
- Sacrificial acts demonstrate the soul's willingness to transcend mortal attachments
Symbolism and cultural significance
- Underworld concepts in Mesoamerican mythology carry deep symbolic meanings
- These beliefs reflect and reinforce cultural values, social structures, and cosmic understanding
Death and rebirth cycles
- Underworld journeys symbolize the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth
- Mirrors agricultural cycles of planting, growth, harvest, and fallow periods
- Reflects Mesoamerican beliefs in the regenerative power of sacrifice
- Emphasizes the interconnectedness of all aspects of existence, from the cosmic to the personal
Agricultural connections
- Underworld realms often associated with soil, seeds, and germination
- Maize god's journey through the underworld parallels the planting and growth of corn
- Seasonal changes in the natural world linked to mythological events in the underworld
- Reinforces the importance of agriculture in Mesoamerican societies and cosmology
Cosmic balance representation
- Underworld serves as a counterbalance to the celestial realm, maintaining cosmic equilibrium
- Interactions between underworld and surface world (rain, volcanic activity) explain natural phenomena
- Dual nature of deities (creator/destroyer) reflects the complex interplay of cosmic forces
- Emphasizes the need for proper rituals and behavior to maintain balance between realms
Influence on Mesoamerican society
- Underworld beliefs profoundly shaped various aspects of Mesoamerican culture
- These concepts influenced daily life, art, and social structures across different civilizations
Funerary practices and rituals
- Elaborate burial rites designed to aid the deceased's journey through the underworld
- Grave goods (food, tools, jewelry) provided to assist souls in overcoming challenges
- Positioning of bodies and orientation of graves reflected beliefs about the afterlife journey
- Ritual bloodletting and human sacrifice connected the living to the underworld realm
Art and iconography
- Underworld themes prominently featured in Mesoamerican art and architecture
- Temples and pyramids often incorporated underworld symbolism in their design
- Codices and murals depicted scenes from underworld narratives and mythological events
- Sculpture and pottery adorned with images of underworld deities and symbolic elements
Religious and political power
- Rulers and priests claimed special connections to the underworld, legitimizing their authority
- Shamanic practices involved journeying to the underworld for knowledge and power
- Public rituals and ceremonies reinforced societal hierarchies based on underworld beliefs
- Control over underworld knowledge served as a source of political and religious influence
Comparative mythology
- Mesoamerican underworld concepts share similarities and differences with other mythological traditions
- Comparing these beliefs offers insights into universal themes and cultural specificities
Mesoamerican vs Greek underworlds
- Both feature multiple regions or levels with distinct characteristics
- Greek underworld (Hades) ruled by a single god, while Mesoamerican underworlds have multiple deities
- Mesoamerican underworlds emphasize cyclical renewal, while Greek afterlife is more static
- Trials in Mesoamerican underworlds focus on personal transformation, Greek underworld on judgment
Similarities with Egyptian afterlife
- Both traditions feature complex journey through the afterlife
- Emphasis on proper burial rites and offerings to aid the deceased
- Inclusion of challenges and tests for the soul (Egyptian Book of the Dead, Mesoamerican trials)
- Concept of cosmic balance and the cyclical nature of existence
Modern interpretations and adaptations
- Mesoamerican underworld concepts influence contemporary literature and art (magical realism)
- Day of the Dead celebrations incorporate elements of traditional underworld beliefs
- Video games and films draw inspiration from Mesoamerican mythology (Grim Fandango)
- Academic studies continue to explore the relevance of these concepts to modern society and psychology
Key Terms to Review (22)
Burial practices: Burial practices refer to the various customs, rituals, and methods employed by cultures to dispose of the dead. These practices are deeply intertwined with beliefs about the afterlife, social status, and the spiritual journey of the deceased, reflecting a culture's worldview and values. In many ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, burial practices were crucial in shaping narratives related to the underworld, as they were seen as a means to navigate the afterlife and maintain a connection with ancestors.
Codex Borgia: The Codex Borgia is a 16th-century Mesoamerican document, often regarded as one of the most significant surviving pre-Columbian manuscripts. It contains a rich array of pictorial narratives, ceremonial calendars, and religious rituals that provide insights into the cosmology and beliefs of the Aztec civilization, especially in relation to their underworld narratives.
David Carrasco: David Carrasco is a prominent scholar and professor known for his work in Mesoamerican studies, particularly focusing on Aztec mythology, cosmology, and narratives. His research provides critical insights into the cultural and spiritual dimensions of Mesoamerican societies, contributing to a deeper understanding of their underworld narratives and mythological frameworks.
Death symbolism: Death symbolism refers to the use of imagery, metaphors, and concepts associated with death to convey deeper meanings, often related to the cycle of life, transformation, and the afterlife. In various narratives, especially those from Mesoamerican cultures, death is not merely an end but a significant transition that shapes existence, representing renewal and connection to spiritual realms.
Dualism of life and death: The dualism of life and death refers to the philosophical and cultural concept that life and death are interconnected and opposing forces that shape existence. This idea often manifests in narratives where life is seen as a journey that inevitably leads to death, emphasizing a cyclical understanding of existence. In many cultures, particularly within Mesoamerican traditions, this duality is reflected in myths that depict the underworld as a significant realm influencing the living world.
Florentine Codex: The Florentine Codex is a comprehensive 12-volume work created in the 16th century by the Franciscan friar Bernardino de Sahagún, documenting the culture, language, and history of the Aztecs. This codex serves as a critical primary source for understanding Mesoamerican underworld narratives, as it details various mythological stories, rituals, and beliefs related to the afterlife and the spiritual world in Aztec culture.
Hunahpu: Hunahpu is a central figure in Maya mythology, particularly within the Popol Vuh, known as the 'Book of the People.' He is one of the Hero Twins, alongside his brother Xbalanque, and is celebrated for his adventures against the lords of the underworld, Xibalba. His narrative explores themes of life, death, and rebirth, reflecting the duality of existence in Mesoamerican belief systems, particularly in relation to the underworld.
Journey of the soul: The journey of the soul refers to the spiritual and transformative process that the soul undergoes after death, often involving trials, challenges, and ultimate rebirth or enlightenment. This concept is prevalent in various cultural narratives, particularly in Mesoamerican underworld stories where the soul's journey symbolizes its passage through realms of existence, grappling with both divine and malevolent forces.
Mayan Glyphs: Mayan glyphs are a complex system of writing used by the ancient Maya civilization, consisting of logograms and syllabic signs. This unique script was employed for various purposes, including recording historical events, religious texts, and administrative documents, serving as a key to understanding the culture and beliefs of the Maya people.
Mictecacihuatl: Mictecacihuatl is the Aztec goddess of death and the ruler of the Mesoamerican underworld, known as Mictlan. As a central figure in underworld narratives, she presides over the afterlife and governs the souls of those who have died, reflecting the rich belief systems of Mesoamerican cultures regarding death, the afterlife, and the cyclical nature of life.
Mictlan: Mictlan is the Aztec underworld, a complex realm of the dead where souls journey after death. It is portrayed as a dark and challenging place, comprising nine levels that souls must navigate, each with its own trials and obstacles, ultimately leading to the final resting place known as the 'House of the Dead.' This concept emphasizes the importance of proper burial rites and rituals in Aztec culture, as the dead must traverse Mictlan to reach their eternal destination.
Mictlantecuhtli: Mictlantecuhtli is the Aztec god of the underworld, known as Mictlan, who presides over the dead and governs the realm of the afterlife. This deity is often depicted as a skeletal figure adorned with symbols of death, embodying the duality of life and mortality, and plays a central role in Mesoamerican beliefs about death and the journey of souls.
Miguel León-Portilla: Miguel León-Portilla was a renowned Mexican historian, anthropologist, and scholar best known for his work on Nahuatl literature and Mesoamerican cultures. He is particularly recognized for his efforts to preserve and promote Indigenous narratives, especially those related to the Mesoamerican underworld, highlighting the importance of these narratives in understanding the history and spirituality of pre-Columbian civilizations.
Nahuatl: Nahuatl is a Uto-Aztecan language spoken by approximately 1.5 million Nahua people in central Mexico. It serves as a significant linguistic and cultural bridge to understanding Mesoamerican civilizations, particularly the Aztec Empire, and their rich mythological narratives, including tales related to the underworld.
Offerings to the dead: Offerings to the dead refer to rituals and gifts presented to deceased individuals, intended to honor their memory and ensure their comfort in the afterlife. These offerings often include food, drink, and symbolic items that represent the needs and desires of the deceased, reflecting cultural beliefs about death and the afterlife. Such practices are deeply embedded in various traditions, showcasing a connection between the living and the dead.
Popol Vuh: The Popol Vuh is a foundational sacred text of the K'iche' Maya that recounts the creation of the world, the adventures of the Hero Twins, and the origins of humanity. It serves as a significant narrative that intersects with various themes, such as creation stories, deities in the Mayan pantheon, and concepts of life after death in Mesoamerican cultures.
Quetzalcoatl: Quetzalcoatl, known as the 'Feathered Serpent,' is a significant deity in Mesoamerican mythology, particularly among the Aztec and Toltec civilizations. This god embodies a unique combination of elements, representing the wind, air, and learning, and is often associated with creation myths, agriculture, and civilization itself. Quetzalcoatl’s dual nature as both feathered and serpentine links him to various cultural narratives and symbols across different civilizations.
Tezcatlipoca: Tezcatlipoca is a central deity in Aztec mythology, often associated with night, conflict, and change. Known as the 'Smoking Mirror,' he represents both creation and destruction and plays a pivotal role in the Aztec pantheon. His complex nature embodies dualities such as good and evil, reflecting the intricate balance of life in Mesoamerican beliefs.
Underworld motifs: Underworld motifs are recurring themes and symbols associated with the depiction of the underworld in various mythologies and narratives. These motifs often explore concepts of death, the afterlife, and the journey of souls, frequently highlighting a struggle between light and darkness, life and death, and the transformative power of the underworld experience.
Were-jaguar motif: The were-jaguar motif refers to a significant iconographic representation found in Mesoamerican art and mythology, depicting a human figure that possesses jaguar-like features. This motif is often associated with themes of transformation, duality, and the connection between humans and the spirit world, particularly in narratives involving the underworld.
Xbalanque: Xbalanque is one of the central figures in Maya mythology, particularly known as a hero twin in the Popol Vuh, which is a sacred text of the K'iche' Maya. He embodies themes of cleverness and resilience, often representing the triumph of life over death and good over evil in the Mesoamerican underworld narratives.
Xibalba: Xibalba is the term used in Maya mythology to refer to the underworld, a dark and complex realm where the dead reside. It is depicted as a place filled with trials and challenges, governed by powerful deities who test the souls of the deceased. This concept plays a significant role in Mesoamerican narratives and journeys to the underworld, highlighting themes of death, rebirth, and the struggle for immortality.