Mesoamerican Deities and Superstitions

Throughout the ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica, a complex web of deities and superstitions shaped the lives and beliefs of the people.

One prominent Mesoamerican deity was Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent god. Often depicted as a combination of serpent and bird, Quetzalcoatl was a symbol of creation, life, and knowledge. The Aztecs believed that Quetzalcoatl played a significant role in the birth and destruction of the world.

Another powerful Mesoamerican deity was Tlaloc, the god of rain and fertility. Tlaloc was highly revered by the ancient civilizations as he controlled the essential element of water. Rituals and sacrifices were offered to ensure bountiful crops and protection from drought.

Mesoamericans held various superstitions related to everyday life. One such belief was the importance of dreams. They believed that dreams were messages from the gods and could provide guidance or warning. They would interpret dreams carefully and consider them while making important decisions.

Additionally, the Mesoamericans feared eclipses. They believed that during an eclipse, the sun or moon was being devoured by a monstrous deity. To prevent this, people would engage in loud noises, music, and even sacrifices to scare away the perceived threat.