The Aztecs were a rich and complex civilization, whose mythology is a fascinating reflection of their beliefs and worldview. In their cosmology, the creation of the world is a tale of epic cycles and powerful gods, embodying a cosmic harmony both terrifying and majestic.
Introduction
The sources of Aztec mythology
Codexes and manuscripts
The Aztecs transmitted their vision of the world through precious codexes and manuscripts. The Codex Borgia and Codex Florentine are emblematic examples, capturing the contours and details of these mythological tales.
Oral tales
Even before Spanish colonization, myths were passed down by word of mouth ear, a cultural heritage nurtured by priests and elders. These oral stories were the cement of Aztec culture and identity.
Cosmic structure in Aztec mythology
Thirteen heavens and nine hells
The Aztecs imagined the universe as a series of thirteen heavens and nine hells, superimposed on one another. Each level of the Topan and Mictlan had a specific role and contributed to the balance of the world.
The center of the world: Tonatiuh and Teotl
The Sun, Tonatiuh, sat at the center of this cosmic conception, supported by the primordial force of Teotl. They symbolized order in creation and the perpetual movement of life.
The five suns: The cyclical regeneration of the world
The first four suns: Creation and destruction
The four cycles preceding the present era each have a story of birth and tragic end: - Nahui-Ocelotl: A world struck down by ferocious jaguars. - Nahui-Ehécatl: An era swept by devastating storms. - Nahui-Quiahuitl: Flames falling from the sky reduced the third world to ashes. - Nahui-Atl: Submerged by a cataclysm aquatic, the fourth world found itself drowned by deluges.
The fifth sun: The current world
Our world, Nahui-Ollin, is the fifth cycle, born of divine sacrifices. The gods like Quetzalcoatl took part in its creation, underlining the value of sacrifice for the future of mankind.
The divine actors of creation
Ometecuhtli and Omecihuatl: The primordial gods
The primordial gods Ometecuhtli and Omecihuatl symbolize the union of all things and the beginning of the celestial chronicle. They gave birth to the deities who take part in the dance of creation.
Quetzalcoatl and Tezcatlipoca: antagonistic brothers
Quetzalcoatl and Tezcatlipoca are two divine brothers whose eternal confrontation has led to the destruction and regeneration of worlds. They embody the balance between creation and chaos.
Huitzilopochtli: The warrior and solar god
Huitzilopochtli, the warrior and solar god, is the protector of the fifth sun. Legend tells of his need for human sacrifice to maintain his strength and light on Earth.
The role of sacrifice in maintaining the universe
The need for sacrifice
The creation of the fifth sun and even the moon was a matter of extreme devotion , requiring the ultimate sacrifice of the deities who offered themselves to the fire. Blood was thus perceived as the fuel of the gods and of the cosmic order.
Ceremonies and human sacrifices
To perpetuate this vital force, the Aztecs practiced human sacrifices in grandiose ceremonies, firmly believing in their power to maintain the balance of the world.
Modern symbols and interpretations of Aztec creation
The central symbolism of the myths
The symbolism of these myths still resonates in Mexican culture, where the Sun and sacrifice occupy a central place, revealing the depth of the connection between natural elements and living beings.
Influence of Aztec mythology in contemporary culture
In the modern era, the creation story of the Aztec world inspires artists and writers, imbuing works of art, literature and the big screen with a singular mythological aura.
Conclusion
The creation of the world according to Aztec mythology is a kaleidoscope of stories where cycles of destruction and rebirth are united by the common thread of sacrifices, both human and divine. This powerful myth shaped the Aztecs' worldview and remains a pillar of their cultural heritage.