Tlaloc

Tlaloc (Tecutli, Tlaloque) (path under the earth, wine of earth, long cave?) In Aztec mythology, god of rain, thunder, and lightning. He controlled mountain springs and weather. Tlaloc lived in a luxurious paradise, Tlalocan, peopled by those who had drowned or had been killed by lightning. One mural from Tepantitla (first to sixth century c.e.) in Teotihuacán portrays the god in his heaven, where there are flowers and butterflies.

He is attended by priests, water flows from his hands, and aquatic creatures play at his feet. The souls of those who live in his paradise are portrayed in the lower half of the work and seem to be extremely happy. However, during Tlaloc’s feast, called Etzalqualiztli (13 May), children and virgins were sacrificed to him. His offspring by his wife Chalchihuitlicue were the Tlalocs, or clouds.

SEE ALSO:

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of World Mythology and Legend, Third Edition – Written by Anthony S. Mercatante & James R. Dow-Copyright © 2009 by Anthony S. Mercatante

To read another article about this subject click on the next page

Related Articles

Moleosophy

Moleosophy Moleosophy is a technique of divination and fortune telling based upon the observation and interpretation of bodily marks —- primarily those of the melanocytic…

Magic

magic The ability or power to manifest by aligning inner forces with natural and supernatural forces. Inner forces are will, thought and imagination; natural forces…

Santería

Santería is a popular religious movement originating in Cuba that combines African and Roman Catholic themes. Santería, “The Way of the Saints,” developed among African…

0

Subtotal