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HISTORY AND MYTHOLOGY

Aztec Mythology: Cosmology, Gods and

Myths
March 2, 2024

Aztec mythology comes from the Aztec civilization in central Mexico. It flourished in central
Mexico from the 14th to the 16th centuries until the Spanish conquest. It explains the origins of
the world, gods, and humans. The Aztecs believed in a cycle of creation and destruction. They
thought the universe had five different eras, callefd the Five Suns. Each era had its own sun god
and ended in disaster.

The Aztecs worshipped many gods. Huitzilopochtli, the god of war and the sun, was one of the
most important. Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent, was another important god. He
represented wind, knowledge, and creation. Tlaloc, the rain god, was crucial for farming. The
Aztecs believed he controlled rain and fertility.

Human sacrifices played a big role in their religion. The Aztecs believed these sacrifices
nourished the gods. They thought that without them, the sun wouldn’t rise, and life would end.
Sacrifices showed honour and kept the balance of the universe.

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The afterlife varied depending on how a person died. Warriors and women who died in childbirth
went to a sun paradise. Most people went to Mictlan, a dark underworld. Aztec mythology is rich
and complex, full of gods, heroes, and legends that shaped their world.

Aztec Mythology Cosmology and the Five Suns

In Aztec mythology, cosmology explains the universe’s structure and the origin of the world. The
Aztecs believed in the concept of the “Five Suns,” which represents five different ages of the
world. Each sun or age had its own unique characteristics and ended in a disaster. This cycle of
creation and destruction highlights the belief in the impermanence of the world.

1.​ First Sun (Jaguar Sun)

2.​ Second Sun (Wind Sun)
3.​ Third Sun (Rain Sun)
4.​ Fourth Sun (Water Sun)
5.​ Fifth Sun (Earthquake Sun)

The First Sun, called the Jaguar Sun, was ruled by the god Tezcatlipoca. It ended when jaguars
devoured the people. The Second Sun, known as the Wind Sun, was governed by Quetzalcoatl.
Strong winds swept everything away, ending this era.

The Third Sun, called the Rain Sun, was under the control of Tlaloc, the rain god. It ended in a
fiery rain that burned the world. The Fourth Sun, known as the Water Sun, was ruled by the
goddess Chalchiuhtlicue. A great flood ended this age, turning the people into fish.
Finally, the Fifth Sun, which is the current age, is called the Earthquake Sun. It began when the
gods sacrificed themselves to create a new sun and moon. The Aztecs believed that this era
would end in earthquakes.

These cycles of creation and destruction explain natural events and the Aztec view of the
universe’s balance. The gods’ actions in these myths show the importance of sacrifice and
renewal. The concept of the Five Suns teaches that the world undergoes continuous change
and that each age has its own challenges and end. This belief system gave the Aztecs a sense
of their place in a constantly evolving universe.

The Major Gods of Aztec Mythology

Huitzilopochtli
the sun god and patron deity of the Aztecs, Huitzilopochtli
Huitzilopochtli is a central god in Aztec mythology. Known as the god of war, sun, and the patron
of the Mexica people, Huitzilopochtli plays a vital role in their culture. His name means
“Hummingbird of the South,” and he is often depicted as a warrior holding a snake-shaped
weapon called the Xiuhcoatl. He is also shown with a blue face and a hummingbird helmet,
symbolizing his connection to the sun and war.

Huitzilopochtli led the Mexica people to the Valley of Mexico. He guided them to Tenochtitlan,
where they saw an eagle perched on a cactus with a snake in its beak. This vision fulfilled a
prophecy, showing them the right place to build their city.

As the sun god, Huitzilopochtli fights each night against the forces of darkness. The Aztecs
believed that he needed human blood to stay strong and continue this battle. This belief led to
regular sacrifices to honour him and ensure the sun would rise each day.
Huitzilopochtli also plays a role in myths about the creation of the world. One story tells of his
birth from Coatlicue, a goddess, while his siblings tried to kill her. Huitzilopochtli defended his
mother, killing many of his siblings, including his sister Coyolxauhqui. This myth explains why
the sun rises and sets, as well as the origin of the moon.

Huitzilopochtli’s worship involved grand temples and ceremonies. The Aztecs built the Templo
Mayor in Tenochtitlan as a major centre for his worship. They believed that their city thrived
under his protection and that he led them to greatness.

Quetzalcoatl
Quetzalcoatl is a major god in Aztec mythology. His name means “Feathered Serpent,” and he
is often depicted as a snake covered in feathers. This unique appearance symbolizes his
connection to both the earth and the sky. Quetzalcoatl represents many things, including wind,
knowledge, and creation.

As a god of wind, Quetzalcoatl is believed to control the air and weather. This power makes him
an important figure for farmers, who rely on him for good weather and successful crops. He is
also a god of learning and knowledge. People view him as a bringer of culture, art, and
education. He taught people how to write, calculate, and perform other essential skills.

Quetzalcoatl is involved in the creation of humans. According to the myths, he and his brother
Xolotl went to the underworld to gather the bones of previous humans. They brought these
bones back and used them to create the new human race.

He is known as a peaceful god. Unlike other gods who demanded human sacrifices,
Quetzalcoatl preferred offerings of birds, butterflies, and flowers. His teachings often
encouraged kindness and opposed unnecessary violence. Quetzalcoatl’s influence extends
beyond the Aztecs. Many other Mesoamerican cultures, like the Toltecs and Maya, also
worshipped him.
Tlaloc
the Aztec god of rain, fertility, and water, Tlaloc
Tlaloc is an important god in Aztec mythology. He rules over rain, water, and fertility. As the rain
god, he controls the weather and provides water for crops. This makes him essential for farming
and food production. People pray to Tlaloc for rain and good harvests.

Tlaloc lives in a paradise called Tlalocan. This place is full of greenery and water, symbolizing
abundance and life. Those who die from water-related causes, like drowning, go to Tlalocan in
the afterlife. It’s considered a peaceful and happy place.

Tlaloc is often depicted with large, goggle-like eyes and fangs. He sometimes holds a lightning
bolt or a container of water. These symbols show his power over storms and rainfall. People
feared and respected Tlaloc because he could bring both life-giving rain and destructive floods.

The Aztecs held ceremonies to honour Tlaloc. They believed that these rituals would ensure
regular rain and protect them from drought. They offered sacrifices, including food and
sometimes humans, to please him. Tlaloc’s influence shows how much the Aztecs valued water
and agriculture. He played a vital role in their daily lives and beliefs.

Tezcatlipoca
Tezcatlipoca is an important god in Aztec mythology. Known as the god of the night, sorcery,
and change, he holds a significant place among the Aztec deities. His name means “Smoking
Mirror,” which refers to his association with obsidian mirrors used for magic and seeing the
future.

Tezcatlipoca often appears with a black and white face, symbolizing his dual nature. He also
carries a mirror on his chest or foot, from which smoke rises. This mirror allows him to see
everything that happens in the world. Tezcatlipoca is a god of conflict and change, representing
the unpredictable aspects of life.
He plays a major role in many Aztec myths. One of his famous myths involves his rivalry with
Quetzalcoatl. They often oppose each other, with Tezcatlipoca representing chaos and
Quetzalcoatl symbolizing order. In one story, Tezcatlipoca tricks Quetzalcoatl into drinking,
which leads to Quetzalcoatl’s downfall.

Tezcatlipoca is also connected to the creation myth of the Five Suns. As the first sun, he ruled
the first world until Quetzalcoatl knocked him from the sky. This event caused the first world to
end, and the cycle of new worlds to begin.

People often feared Tezcatlipoca because of his unpredictable nature. They believed he could
bring misfortune as easily as he could bring success. They honoured him with ceremonies to
seek his favour and protection. He is a complex god who embodies the ever-changing nature of
the world, making him a powerful figure in Aztec culture.

Other Aztec Deities

the Aztec goddess of water, Chalchiuhtlicue

Chalchiuhtlicue
Chalchiuhtlicue is an important goddess in Aztec mythology. Her name means “She of the Jade
Skirt.” She is the goddess of rivers, lakes, and all bodies of water.

Chalchiuhtlicue is also linked to fertility and childbirth. People believe she helps crops grow and
children be born safely. She is often depicted with a flowing skirt and water symbols.

As the wife or sister of Tlaloc, the rain god, she holds a crucial role in water and agriculture.
People honour her to ensure good rains and fertile lands. Chalchiuhtlicue also ruled the Fourth
Sun, which ended in a great flood.
Xipe Totec
Xipe Totec is an important god in Aztec mythology. His name means “Our Lord the Flayed One.”
He represents agriculture, fertility, and renewal. People honour him by wearing the skin of
sacrificial victims, symbolizing rebirth and new growth.

This ritual reflects the shedding of old skin for new life, much like plants growing anew each
season. Xipe Totec is also associated with goldsmiths and craftsmen. His image often shows
him wearing a flayed skin and holding a rattle staff.

People believed he could cure diseases and bring good harvests, making him a crucial figure in
their religious practices.

Tonatiuh
Tonatiuh is the Aztec god of the sun. He rules over the current era, known as the Fifth Sun. As
the sun god, he plays a vital role in the cycle of day and night. The Aztecs believed he needed
human sacrifices to stay strong and continue shining.

This belief led to regular rituals where people offered hearts to nourish him. Tonatiuh is often
depicted as a fierce warrior, symbolizing the sun’s power and energy. He appears in the centre
of the Aztec calendar stone, showing his importance in Aztec cosmology. His image reminds
people of the need to honour and respect the gods.

Coyolxauhqui
Coyolxauhqui is an important figure in Aztec mythology. She is the moon goddess and the
daughter of the earth goddess Coatlicue. Coyolxauhqui’s name means “Bells Her Cheeks,”
referring to the bells she wears on her face.

She leads her 400 brothers, the stars, in a plot against their mother, Coatlicue. They become
angry when they find out that Coatlicue is pregnant with Huitzilopochtli, the sun god.
Huitzilopochtli is born fully armed and defeats Coyolxauhqui and her brothers. He throws her off
the sacred mountain, tearing her apart.

This myth explains the moon’s phases and the conflict between night and day.

Learn more about: Legendary Archery Mythology

Aztec Creation Myths

These myths form an integral part of Aztec mythology, intertwining the supernatural and earthly
realms.

Myth: The Creation of the Five Suns

The Aztecs believed in the creation and destruction of five different worlds, or “suns.” Each sun
had its own god and ended in a disaster. The first sun ended with jaguars eating people. Strong
winds would destroy the second sun.

The third sun ended with fiery rain, while the fourth sun was destroyed by floods. We currently
live under the Fifth Sun, which will end in earthquakes. This myth explains the cycles of creation
and destruction, highlighting the Aztec view of life’s impermanence.

Myth: The Birth of Huitzilopochtli

Coatlicue, the Mother of All Gods in Aztec mythology
The goddess Coatlicue became pregnant with Huitzilopochtli, angering her other children. They,
led by Coyolxauhqui, planned to kill her. Huitzilopochtli, however, emerged fully armed and
defeated them. He cut Coyolxauhqui into pieces and threw her from the sacred mountain.

This myth explains the triumph of the sun over the moon and stars, symbolizing the daily cycle
of day and night. Huitzilopochtli’s victory also represents the strength of the sun in Aztec culture.
Myth: The Legend of the Templo Mayor
Huitzilopochtli guided the Aztecs to the Valley of Mexico. He sent them a vision of an eagle
perched on a cactus, eating a snake. This sign showed them where to build Tenochtitlan, their
great city.

The prophecy fulfilled by this vision made Templo Mayor a sacred place. This myth highlights
the importance of divine guidance and destiny in Aztec culture. The eagle, cactus, and snake
became powerful symbols in Aztec iconography.

Myth: The Legend of Quetzalcoatl and Tezcatlipoca

Quetzalcoatl and Tezcatlipoca are powerful gods who often clash. In one story, Tezcatlipoca
tricks Quetzalcoatl into drinking alcohol. This act leads to Quetzalcoatl’s disgrace and exile. The
myth shows the balance between chaos and order.

Quetzalcoatl represents knowledge and creation, while Tezcatlipoca symbolizes darkness and
destruction. Their rivalry explains the ups and downs in the world, showing how different forces
influence life.

Myth: The Creation of Humanity

Quetzalcoatl, the Feathered Serpent
Quetzalcoatl descended to the underworld to retrieve the bones of past humans. He then mixed
them with his own blood to create the new human race. This act showed his compassion and
care for humanity.

The myth emphasizes the importance of sacrifice and the gods’ role in human existence. It also
highlights the connection between the divine and the mortal world, showing that humans owe
their lives to the gods.
Myth: The Creation of the Fifth Sun
The gods gathered to create a new sun and moon. The humble god Nanahuatzin sacrificed
himself and became the sun. Tecuciztecatl, who hesitated, became the moon. This myth
explains the origins of the sun and moon’s roles. It also underscores the value of humility and
self-sacrifice.

The Aztecs believed that these celestial bodies required nourishment through human sacrifices
to keep moving across the sky. This story emphasizes the cycle of day and night and the
importance of sustaining the universe through offerings.

The Aztec Afterlife

Aztec beliefs about the afterlife vary based on the manner of death. They believe in different
destinations for souls, each with its own ruler and environment.

Most souls travelled to Mictlan, the underworld, ruled by the god Mictlantecuhtli and his consort
Mictecacihuatl. Mictlan was a place of darkness and stillness. Souls rested after a long journey
through nine levels which included many challenges. The deceased needed offerings and
guidance from the living to reach it.

Tonatiuh Ilhuicac was the sun’s paradise. Warriors who died in battle and women who died in
childbirth went there. These souls were honoured and believed to accompany the sun on its
daily journey across the sky. They enjoyed a noble afterlife, reflecting the Aztec value placed on
bravery and sacrifice.

Tlalocan was a paradise for those who died from water-related causes, like drowning or
lightning. Ruled by the rain god Tlaloc, it was a place of eternal spring and abundance. In
Tlalocan, souls enjoyed a peaceful existence with lush gardens and plentiful resources. This
symbolizes the nurturing aspect of water.
These varied beliefs highlight the Aztec view that the afterlife was not a single destination but a
realm influenced by one’s earthly deeds and manner of death.

Weapons Used in Aztec Mythology

Tlahuiztli, the ceremonial feathered attire of an Aztec warrior

The primary weapon in Aztec archery was the atlatl, a spear-throwing device that provided
greater accuracy and range. This innovative tool allowed Aztec warriors to hurl their weapons
with remarkable force, effectively targeting enemies from a distance.

The atlatl became a symbol of prowess and skill, representing the warrior’s ability to protect
their community and defend their honour. The atlatl was not the only element of Aztec archery
that carried cultural significance. The warriors also donned ceremonial attire known as tlahuiztli
during battles and rituals.

This ornate costume, adorned with feathers and vibrant colours, not only served as protection
but also symbolized the connection between the warrior and the divine.

The tlahuiztli highlighted the spiritual aspect of Aztec warfare, emphasizing the warrior’s role as
a vessel for the gods.

Archery played a vital role in Aztec warrior culture. It was seen as a way to honor their gods,
showcase valor and skill, and protect their communities from external threats.

The ability to master the art of archery was highly respected and celebrated within Aztec society,
with skilled archers often holding esteemed positions among the warriors.

Rituals and Offerings in Aztec Mythology

Aztec mythology is rich with various rituals and offerings that played a crucial role in their
religious practices. These sacred ceremonies were performed by the priests to honor the gods
and maintain cosmic order.

Among these rituals, the controversial practice of human sacrifice stands out as one of the most
striking aspects of Aztec culture. The Aztecs believed that human sacrifice was necessary to
sustain the universe and appease the gods. The victims were carefully selected and prepared
for their role in the ritualistic ceremonies. The sacrifice itself was seen as a sacred act, offering a
life in exchange for cosmic harmony.

Divination was also a significant part of Aztec rituals. The priests used various methods to
communicate with the gods and gain insights into the future.

One popular divination technique involves the reading of omens from animals, natural
phenomena, and even the movement of the stars. The Aztecs believe that by understanding the
will of the gods through divination, they could make important decisions about war, agriculture,
and other crucial aspects of life.

In addition to human sacrifice and divination, the Aztecs also performed other sacred
ceremonies to honour their deities. These rituals involved offerings of food, flowers, and other
symbolic items to express gratitude and seek blessings.

Conclusion of Aztec mythology

The pantheon of Aztec gods is a testament to the intricate belief system of the Aztecs. The
stories surrounding these deities shed light on their roles in the Aztec cosmos.

The creation myths, featuring figures like Tezcatlipoca, Coatlicue, and Quetzalcoatl, provide
insights into the Aztec beliefs about the origins of the world and humanity.
The ancient art of archery played a significant role in Aztec culture, both as a skill for hunting
and warfare. The use of the atlatl, a spear-throwing device, and the ceremonial attire known as
tlahuiztli exemplify the depth of Aztec archery traditions.

The rituals and offerings include sacred human sacrifice ceremonies and practices showcasing
the Aztecs’ devotion to their gods..

The Aztecs’ reverence for their gods, their creation stories, and their mastery of ancient archery
techniques all contribute to the unique tapestry of Mesoamerican history and mythology that
continues to captivate us today.