Tlaloc : The Thunder God
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At a glance
| Description | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Aztec Mythology |
| Classification | Gods |
| Family Members | Chalchiuhtlicue (Wife), Tecciztecatl (Son) |
| Region | Mexico |
| Associated With | Lightning, Thunder, Rain, Drought, Human Sacrifice |
Tlaloc
Introduction
The Aztec deity known as Tlaloc is regarded as the god of rain, water, and agriculture. He was also a fearsome and powerful deity who frequently caused severe droughts and storms to express his displeasure. He was regarded as a benevolent deity who provided much-needed nourishment, but he was also an unpredictable and cruel one who sent storms, lightning and drought.
In the Aztec Creation myth, Tlaloc was the ruler of the 3rd Sun. He was also linked to the deer known as Mzatl, and he was regarded as one of the most significant figures in the Lord of the Night and the Lords of the Day. The origins of the god are probably much earlier as he shares many similarities with the Olmec God IV and the Mayan God B or Chac.
Tlaloc was created during the creation phase after Huitzilpochtli and Quetzalcoatl dismembered a reptilian creature known as Cipactli. He was often associated with various weather conditions such as storms, floods, ice, and rain.
Physical Traits
In Aztec art, Tlaloc is usually depicted with a pair of googly eyes which was distinctive to him and a pair of fangs. He was also often accompanied by water, maize, and lightning in all depictions. In Tenochtitlan, offerings made to Tlaloc included the skulls of various animals such as the jaguar, which were considered to be the ultimate sacrifice.
As a deity, Tlaloc was represented by the distinctive features of his statue, such as his mask and his headdress, which are made of feathers of the heron. He was also known to carry various objects, such as a ritual water container, a bolt of lightning or a cornstalk.
Family
Although most Aztec gods had traditional parents, Tlaloc and his wife, Chalchiuhtlicue, were created by the multiple offspring of Ometecuhtli and Omecihuatl who were Xipe Totec, Tezcatlipoca, Quetzalcoatl, and Huitzilopochtli. Tlaloc’s son, Tecciztecatl, was created after he followed the god Nanahuitzin into a bonfire to create the fifth sun. Some stories claim that Tlaloc married Xochiquetzal, whose name was Flower Quetzal Feather. However, she was stolen by Tezcatlipoma after which Tlaloc married another rain goddess.
Other Names
In the various Mesoamerican cultures Tláloc appears as Dzahui for the Mixtec, Tajίn for the Totonac, Chupithripeme for the Tarascan and Cocijo for the Zapotec. Tlaloc was also associated with the dead and with the Earth. His name is believed to have come from the Nahuatl word tllli, which literally means “the path beneath the earth.” It has also been interpreted as a long cave, a deity who is made of earth, and a man who is the epitome of the planet. Other names of Tlaloc were Tlamacazqui (“Giver”) and Xoxouhqui (“Green One”); and (among the contemporary Nahua of Veracruz), Chaneco.
Powers and Abilities
Besides being regarded as a powerful deity, Tlaloc was also greatly feared by the Aztecs. He could cause severe droughts and storms to provoke hunger and death, and he was known to throw lightning upon the Earth and unleash powerful hurricanes. According to some, he could also send down various types of rain, which could destroy crops or affect various other areas of the Earth.
Some of the common illnesses that were attributed to Tlaloc and his fellow deities, such as rheumatism, dropsy, and leprosy, were also said to have been caused by him and his companions. Although the dead were usually cremated, those who had died due to one of these illnesses or were struck by lightning were buried. Tlaloc, however, fulfilled his promise to give the deceased an eternal life in his paradise.
Modern Day Influence
Many scholars believe that the various cultures of South and Meso America can be traced back to one common origin using Tlaloc as there are multiple gods with similar storylines and visual representation. This has also led to confusions arising to various non Tlaloc figures and representations being attributed to him. In the 1970s a temple dedicated to the god was built on top of Mount Tlaloc giving rise to the belief that a revival of worship and rituals are in place.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tlaloc the god of?
Tlaloc is the Aztec god of rain, water, fertility, and agricultural abundance. He is revered for controlling rainfall, essential for crop growth and sustenance. Tlaloc embodies both beneficial rains and destructive storms, representing the duality of water’s impact. He is often depicted with goggle-like eyes and fangs, surrounded by aquatic symbols. Rituals and ceremonies were performed to gain his favor for plentiful harvests.
Why was Tlaloc feared?
Tlaloc was feared due to his ability to unleash destructive storms and floods, which could devastate communities. His dual nature meant he could provide life-giving rain or cause droughts and famine if displeased. The demand for sacrifices, particularly of children, to gain his favor heightened this fear. He represented the unpredictable forces of nature, instilling awe and trepidation among the Aztecs. Ultimately, his power over essential resources made him a significant yet feared deity.
Is Tlaloc still worshipped?
Tlaloc is not actively worshipped like during the Aztec civilization, which ended in the 16th century. However, elements of his reverence persist in modern indigenous spiritual practices and cultural identity in Mexico. Some traditional festivals still honor Tlaloc, particularly those related to agriculture and water. He also serves as a symbol in discussions around environmentalism and the importance of respecting nature. Additionally, archaeological sites dedicated to Tlaloc attract interest, helping to maintain awareness of his historical significance.
Who was sacrificed to Tlaloc?
Tlaloc was primarily associated with the sacrifice of children, particularly those who died young, as these offerings were believed to be especially pleasing to him. The Aztecs thought that the tears of children could invoke rain, making them valuable offerings for ensuring agricultural fertility and favorable weather. Additionally, during certain rituals, other types of sacrifices, including adults, were also made to Tlaloc, particularly during ceremonies that aimed to appease him and secure bountiful harvests.
Is Tlaloc a boy or girl?
Tlaloc is traditionally depicted as a male deity in Aztec mythology. He is often portrayed with masculine features and associated with characteristics of power and strength, particularly in his role as the god of rain and water. However, some representations of Tlaloc may include androgynous traits or aspects that blend both masculine and feminine elements, reflecting the complexity of Aztec deities and their connections to nature. Despite this, Tlaloc is primarily recognized as a male god within the Aztec pantheon.
