The Four Suns: Understanding the Aztec Creation Myth and Calendar

I. Introduction to Aztec Mythology

Aztec mythology is a rich tapestry of beliefs and stories that shaped the worldview of the Aztec civilization. Central to their cosmology is the belief in a universe that is ever-changing, marked by cycles of creation and destruction. Creation myths played a crucial role in Mesoamerican cultures, serving not only as explanations for the origins of the world and humanity but also as foundational narratives that informed religious practices and societal norms.

Among these myths is the concept of the Four Suns, which represents the different epochs of creation according to Aztec belief. Each Sun symbolizes a distinct age characterized by its unique deities, elements, and catastrophic events leading to its demise.

II. The Concept of the Four Suns

The Four Suns in Aztec mythology are not merely celestial bodies; they embody the cycles of life, death, and rebirth that permeate the Aztec understanding of existence. Each Sun represents a different phase in the creation of the world and reflects the dual nature of existence—creation intertwined with destruction.

• First Sun: The Age of the Jaguar
• Second Sun: The Age of the Wind
• Third Sun: The Age of Rain
• Fourth Sun: The Age of the Earth

The symbolism of each Sun is profound, reflecting the attributes of the associated deities and the elements they governed. The Aztec worldview emphasized the cyclical nature of life, suggesting that destruction is merely a precursor to new creation.

III. The First Sun: Tezcatlipoca and the Age of the Jaguar

The First Sun is characterized by darkness and the jaguar, a powerful symbol in Aztec mythology. Tezcatlipoca, the god of the night sky, magic, and conflict, plays a pivotal role as a creator deity in this age.

In this era, the world was inhabited by jaguars and other fierce creatures. Tezcatlipoca, along with his counterpart Quetzalcoatl, formed humanity from the bones of the previous age’s inhabitants. However, the First Sun was marked by chaos and conflict, leading to its eventual destruction by jaguar warriors sent by Tezcatlipoca himself.

IV. The Second Sun: Quetzalcoatl and the Age of the Wind

The Second Sun, also known as the Age of the Wind, was governed by Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent god associated with knowledge, wind, and life. This era was characterized by the flourishing of civilization, agriculture, and the arts.

Quetzalcoatl nurtured humanity, teaching them essential skills and promoting harmony. However, the age came to an abrupt end when the wind became too powerful, leading to catastrophic events such as storms and destruction of the earth. This demise was seen as a punishment for humanity’s disobedience and excess.

V. The Third Sun: Tlaloc and the Age of Rain

The Third Sun represents the Age of Rain, ruled by Tlaloc, the rain god. This era was marked by an abundance of water and agricultural prosperity. Tlaloc provided sustenance through rain, allowing crops to flourish and civilizations to thrive.

However, despite its blessings, the Third Sun met a tragic end. The rains became torrential and uncontrollable, leading to floods that consumed the world. This catastrophic event was viewed as a consequence of humanity’s failure to honor Tlaloc through rituals and offerings.

VI. The Fourth Sun: Xipe Totec and the Age of the Earth

The Fourth Sun, also known as the Age of the Earth, is the current era in Aztec mythology. Governed by Xipe Totec, the god of agriculture, renewal, and the seasons, this age embodies the themes of rebirth and transformation.

Xipe Totec’s influence is seen in agricultural cycles, as he represents the process of death and renewal in nature. This age emphasizes the importance of life cycles, where death gives way to new growth. The symbolism of the Fourth Sun is deeply intertwined with the agricultural practices of the Aztecs, highlighting their reliance on the earth’s fertility.

VII. The Aztec Calendar and its Connection to the Four Suns

The Aztec Calendar is a sophisticated system that reflects the cyclical nature of time in Aztec cosmology. It is divided into various cycles, including the Tonalpohualli, a 260-day ritual calendar, and the Xiuhpohualli, a 365-day solar calendar.

The Four Suns are integral to understanding the calendar’s structure, as each Sun corresponds to specific periods within these cycles. The Suns symbolize the past ages and the lessons learned from them, influencing the agricultural, religious, and social practices of the Aztecs.

• Rituals: Each Sun required specific rituals to appease the associated deities.
• Festivals: Celebrations often marked the transition between Suns, reinforcing the importance of renewal and reverence for the gods.

VIII. Conclusion: The Legacy of the Four Suns in Aztec Culture

The myth of the Four Suns has left an enduring legacy in Aztec culture, influencing not only their religion but also their understanding of life and death. The cyclical nature of the Suns reflects the Aztec belief in the inevitability of change and the importance of adaptation.

In contemporary culture, the Four Suns continue to resonate, reminding us of the interconnectedness of life and the environment. The reflections on the cyclical nature of existence urge us to respect and honor our relationship with the earth, drawing parallels to modern environmental concerns.

Understanding the Four Suns is not only a journey through Aztec mythology but also an invitation to explore the deeper meanings of life, death, and rebirth that remain relevant today.