The Aztec Five Suns: An Introduction to the Mythical Creation Story
The Aztec Five Suns is a creation myth that tells the story of how the world was created and destroyed five times, each time by a different element. According to the myth, the world was created by the gods, who sacrificed themselves to create the first sun. Over time, four more suns were created and destroyed, each time by a different element like fire, water, and wind. The myth has had a profound influence on Aztec culture and art, and is still studied and celebrated today.
The First Sun: The Age of the Jaguars
The first sun was created by the gods through their own sacrifice, and was associated with the age of the jaguars. The jaguar was a powerful symbol in Aztec culture, representing strength and agility. During this age, humans were said to have been created and lived in harmony with nature, hunting and gathering their food.
The Second Sun: The Age of the Wind
The second sun was created and destroyed by the god Tezcatlipoca, and was associated with the age of the wind. During this time, the earth was ravaged by fierce hurricanes and tornadoes. Humans were said to have survived by living in caves and subsisting on snakes and insects.
The Third Sun: The Age of the Fire
The third sun was created by the god Quetzalcoatl, and was associated with the age of the fire. During this age, the earth was consumed by flames, and humans were said to have been destroyed by the fire. The few survivors were turned into monkeys.
The Fourth Sun: The Age of the Water
The fourth sun was created by the god Tlaloc, and was associated with the age of the water. During this age, the earth was flooded by great rains, and humans were said to have perished in the flood. The few survivors were turned into fish.
The Fifth Sun: The Age of the Movement
The fifth sun was created by the god Tonatiuh, and is associated with the age of movement. This is the current age in which we live. According to the myth, it will end when the gods decide to destroy it, and a new age will begin.
The Aztec Five Suns creation myth is a fascinating and complex story that has had a lasting impact on Aztec culture and art. It provides a unique insight into the way that ancient cultures understood the world and its creation, and serves as a reminder of the power of mythology and storytelling. Despite its age, the myth remains an important and relevant part of Aztec cultural heritage, and continues to inspire and captivate people around the world.
