Maya Religion
The Maya believed everything in nature had a soul—from rocks to animals—a belief system known by this term.
What is animism?
This was the Maya’s most important crop, though they also grew beans, squash, and chili peppers.
What is maize (or corn)?
These highly respected individuals fought using clubs with obsidian blades, spears, and axes.
Who were the Warriors?
This green gemstone was the most prized material for Maya jewelry, symbolizing life and growth.
What is Jade?
Occupying the second most important social position, this group served as the primary keepers of knowledge and educators.
Who were the Priests?
Maya priests used these objects like "magic windows" to talk to spirits or see the future.
What are mirrors?
This term describes a piece of land surrounded by water on three sides, like the Yucatan.
What is a peninsula?
Often called the "People of the Corn," this largest social group primarily worked in this profession.
What are farmers?
To create detailed narratives on their ceramics, Maya artists used paintbrushes made specifically from this material.
What is animal hair?
These Maya rulers were believed to be "divine" descendants of gods and held absolute authority over their city-states.
Who were the Kings (or Leaders)?
Beyond the Madrid and Paris codices, this third surviving primary book is a key source for archaeologists studying Maya religious texts.
What is the Dresden Codex?
The Mayan world was divided into these two distinct regions based on elevation and temperature.
What are the Northern Lowlands and the Southern Highlands?
Priests studied these two academic fields to create complex calendars that guided farmers on planting seasons.
What is astronomy and math?
The Maya were among the first to cultivate this plant, using its beans both as a beverage for elites and as a form of currency.
What is cacao (or chocolate)?
Most Maya lived in simple huts with roofs made from the thatched leaves of this tree.
What is a palm tree?
To keep their gods strong and the world running, the Maya practiced this, often using sharp objects like stingray spines.
What is bloodletting?
Because the northern lowlands had few permanent rivers or lakes, settlers relied on these.
What are sinkholes/cenotes ?
Some women rose to high positions of power, such as Lady Tikal and Lady Six Sky, who were respected by this powerful title.
What are "warrior queens"?
To maximize utility and family life, Maya homes were often grouped in plots that included these three distinct outdoor features.
What are a garden, a well, and a separate kitchen area?
The Maya performed over a thousand different dances; two specific examples mentioned in the text are named after these creatures.
What are the Monkey and the Centipede?
A ceremony that priest held in sacred caves that connected the heavens, the earth, and the underworld that celebrated this.
What is Ya'axche or Tree of Life?
This specific Northern city was a major trade hub famous for its pyramid, El Castillo, located near a vital water source.
What is Chichen Itza?
Beyond leading the military, Kings were responsible for these two specific activities to maintain cosmic balance and appease the gods.
What are religious rituals and blood sacrifices?
This was the grim conclusion of a Pok-a-tok match, intended to honor the gods and ensure a path to heaven for the participants.
What is human sacrifice?
While difficult to farm, this environment provided the Maya with essential resources like wood and animals.
What is the Tropical Rainforest?