Opochtli : God of Hunting

Opochtli

Introduction

The Aztec civilization, known for its rich mythology and pantheon of deities, worshipped a wide array of gods and goddesses. Among them, Opochtli stands out as a unique and intriguing figure. Opochtli, often referred to as the Aztec god of fishing, hunting, and fertility, played a significant role in the religious and cultural practices of the Aztecs.

Opochtli was primarily worshipped in the city of Tlatelolco, located near modern-day Mexico City. The main temple dedicated to him was called the “Templo Mayor” or the Great Temple. The temple complex housed various shrines to different deities, with Opochtli’s shrine prominently positioned on the western side of the temple.

Physical Traits

Opochtli was portrayed as a naked man painted black, his head decked with plumes from wild birds and a coronet in the shape of a rose. His head was adorned with feathers and a coronet, and he was depicted with a red shield and a white flower on his left hand. In his right hand, Opochtli was holding a cup. Various depictions of the warrior depicted him wearing a headdress made of shells and feathers, and he was depicted with a stern expression. He was also known to hold a hunting weapon and fishing net. These portrayals portrayed him as a provider and guardian.

Family

There are very few writings about his family but some researchers claim that Coatlicue. the earth goddess, gave birth to Opochtli and his siblings like the moon goddess Coyolxauhqui and the sun and war god Huitzilopochtli. His father is the god of hunting, Mixcoatl who is also the father of the feathered serpent god Quetzalcoatl and the dog-headed god Xolotl. His other siblings are the Four Hundred Southerners’ Centzon Huitznahua and his wife Chalchiuhtlicue, is the goddess of rivers and water. She is the wife of the rain god Tlaloc and the mother of a moon god known as Tecciztectl.

Other names

In Nahuatl, his name means The Left or The Left-Handed.

Powers and Abilities

Opochtli was regarded as the god who threw his weapon with his left hand. According to the Aztecs, the south was placed on the left side due to their orientation, and Opochtli was associated with this region. It is believed that he invented various items, such as a bird snare, a canoe pole, and an atlatl. Opochtli is a significant figure in Aztec mythology and culture. He is a symbol of the skill and respect of fishing and hunting, as well as the power and beauty of nature. He is a source of inspiration and guidance for those who honor him.

Opochtli’s significance extended beyond his association with fishing, hunting, and fertility. He was also seen as a protector of children, symbolizing the journey from darkness to light. Opochtli embodied the transformative forces of nature, as seen in the cycles of sunrise and sunset, the seasons, and the growth of crops. This symbolism further emphasized the interconnectedness between nature, fertility, and human life.

Modern Day Influence

Following the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire in the 16th century, the worship of Opochtli, like many other indigenous deities, was suppressed. However, traces of Opochtli’s influence can still be found in modern-day Mexican culture. The fishing communities along the coasts of Mexico continue to honor Opochtli’s legacy through their traditions and rituals.