The Aztec religion is one the most ancient in Mesoamerica. For sunrise, the Aztec gods face opposite directions. Quetzalcoatl faces east. The Sun rises from east and sways side to side. Ecatl, wind god, is made a great sacrifice at the dawn. After the massive sacrifice, the wind god blows the sun into motion.
Mesoamerican religions of ancient times
In Ancient Mesoamerican religion, the gods played a central role in everyday life. Human sacrifices and various offerings were a regular part of the rituals. In these societies, a complex priestly hierarchy was established. The architectural pattern for building temples was the same, with pyramids on top that were truncated and containing sanctuaries. Religion also included a shared worldview, and the use spatial symbols.
Gods
Aztec gods have been depicted as a range of different creatures, depending on their particular function. Many were revered and feared for their violent ways, but there were some that had more positive and uplifting qualities. Mictlantecuhtli for instance, was an Aztec god of death. The Aztecs believed that she descended into the underworld after being sacrificed as a child. After her death, she married Miclantecuhtl (another Aztec god of the dead). Mictlantecuhtli had a graphic appearance, with a wide mouth and a necklace of eyeballs.
Sacrifices
Sacrifices are an important part the Aztec religion. They were used to gain status in society, as well as a source of income. The Aztec religion relied on the payment of tributes from conquered territories, so human sacrifices were necessary. Those who had proven their worth as the best soldiers and were able to earn a higher ranking in society earned higher status. The emperor also gave them special clothing and weapons. These rewards were acknowledged by the entire Aztec society.
Sacred fire
Sacred fire played a vital role in the Aztec religion. The Aztecs believed that the world consisted of three levels: the underworld, earth and heavens. The Templo Mayor (Temple of the Mayor) was the center of this system, which connected the three realms. The heavenly realm was the realm of the gods, and the underworld was the world of humans.
Tlaloc
The Aztec religion has many representations of the god Tlaloc. These representations of Tlaloc the rain god do not always match. Tlaloc can be seen in many places and forms, including caves, mountaintops, and even in the sky. Tlaloc can be seen with many items that signify the fertility and health of the earth. Tlaloc can also be shown alongside land animals, like the jaguar.
Quetzalcoatl
Quetzalcoatl the Aztec God is associated with many myths. One of the most popular myths describes the serpent-headed god as the ruler of the mythic city of Tollan. However, there is much disagreement about the historical accuracy of the myths. Some historians even question the historical accuracy of some myths and legends about Quetzalcoatl.