Aztecs Cosmology

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The Aztecs cosmology was a unique combination of mythology. Their beliefs about themselves and their purpose were not something they took lightly. “The mystic-militaristic approach characteristic of Aztec religion…felt that the purpose of man’s creation was to provide blood for the maintenance of the Sun’s life” (Leon-Portilla, Aztec Thought & Culture, 122). With this perspective of themselves, the Aztecs believed that human sacrifice was not only justified but necessary for the lives of civilization. Simply put, mankind was “food” for god.

On the other hand, “the tlamatinime’s interpretation of the creation perhaps held more meaning than might be supposed” (Leon-Portilla, Aztec Thought & Culture, 122) because they saw themselves as “playthings” or entertainment for the gods. Regardless of how an Aztec felt about his purpose for creation, it was clear that there was more alike among the people than different. They believed this life was but a dream and death was like waking. An Aztec poet wrote, “Let us consider things as lent to us, oh, friends; only in passing are we here on earth; tomorrow or the day after, as Your heart desires, oh Giver of Life, we shall go, my friends, to His home” (Leon-Portilla, Aztec Thought & Culture, 124). Most Aztecs did not believe that life ended with death, but death was just a beginning. They believed that the things on this earth are not theirs, but they are just stewards of them. The Aztecs believed they were chosen with a mission “to side with the sun in the cosmic struggle, to side with goodness to ascertain its triumph over evil, and to give to all of humanity the benefits of the victory of the forces of light over the powers of night” (Leon-Portilla, Aztec Thought & Culture, 36). ...

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...ue but it sounds like they generally believed that destinies can be changed. Although I believe that ultimately it’s God’s say in our lives, we are free agents who are responsible for our actions.

Lastly, I believe that the definition of truth can correspond with my beliefs. Although I don’t believe truth is relative, I believe that the definition of truth as a foundation, support or root is very true. When I read it, I immediately thought of Jeremiah 17:7-8: “But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” I think it is beautiful how well the definition of “truth” in the Aztec language harmonizes with Scripture.

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