Aztec civilization, flamboyant and complex, flourished in the heart of present-day Mexico before being abruptly interrupted by the arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors. Deeply rooted in Aztec culture, religion shaped daily life and governed the social, political and economic spheres. This article explores how spirituality was woven into the daily life of this impressive society.

Fundamental beliefs

The Aztec pantheon was rich and varied, populated by gods and goddesses demanding respect and devotion. Among them, Huitzilopochtli, the sun god and of war, and Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent deity, played prominent roles . The Aztecs believed that the world had been created and destroyed many times, and they lived under the era of the Fifth Sun, believing that their religious practices ensured the continuity of existence.

Religion in Aztec Society

• The Aztec clergy: A well-established hierarchy presided over rites and temple management. The clergy was influential, guiding the population in respect for the deities.

• Religious influence on social classes:** Birth determined class, but religion offered opportunities for status through actions and sacrifices.

• Religious education and initiation:** Initiation into beliefs and myths began in childhood, guaranteeing the continuity of religious practices.

Daily religious practices

Every Aztec household observed rituals to honor the gods, imploring their favor for harvests, prosperity and family well-being. The festivals following the sacred calendar punctuated life, ranging from intimate ceremonies to lavish public events, such as the celebration of Tezcatlipoca. Citizens had precise obligations in religious practice, including sacrifices offered to nourish the gods and maintain the balance of the world.

Religion and Governance

The legitimacy of rulers rested on the approval of the gods, and they often had to demonstrate their involvement in rituals to maintain their power. Laws and social order reflected religious precepts, inculcating a discipline centered on duties to the deity. The military campaigns were also justified by the desire to expand the sacred territory and acquire prisoners for sacrifice.

Art and Religious Expression

Religious symbolism was omnipresent in Aztec art, communicating myths and values through detailed sculptures and paintings. The temples and great pyramids reflected the importance of sacred spaces dedicated to ritual. Music and dance were essential components of ceremonies, conveying spiritual fervor.

Religion and Economy

Agriculture was intrinsically linked to beliefs. Sowing and harvesting cycles followed sacred calendars, ensuring the blessing of harvests by deities. Trade was regulated by the clergy, who levied taxes to finance religious activities. The great ceremonies had a strong economic impact, with investments in festivities demonstrating the importance of religion in the Aztec economy.

Influence on Health and Wellbeing

• Traditional medicine: relied on spiritual remedies and the intercession of deities for healing.
• Lifestyle hygiene: Dietary prohibitions and health prescriptions were dictated by spiritual considerations.
• Disaster management: Religious rituals were a means of appeasing plagues and requesting divine intervention in the event of natural disasters.

Synthesis and Perspectives

Religion permeated every aspect of Aztec daily life, shaping its culture, art and organization. Comparisons with other pre-Columbian civilizations reveal similarities and differences in beliefs and practices. The legacy of Aztec religion remains an integral part of modern Mexican cultural identity.

Conclusion

Although the Aztec empire is no more, Aztec spirituality continues to inspire fascination and reverence. This article has illuminated how religion wove the very fabric of Aztec daily life, demonstrating that belief can profoundly shape a civilization.