Story Summary
Discover The Creation of Humans from Maize, the sacred Mayan story from the Popol Vuh about the gods crafting the first people from yellow and white corn.
After the gods Tepew and Q'ukumatz failed to create humans from mud and wood, they sought a substance that could think, speak, and show gratitude. Guided by a fox, a coyote, a parrot, and a crow to the sacred mountain of Paxil, they discovered golden yellow and white corn. The divine grandmother Xmucane ground the maize nine times, mixing the meal with water to create the flesh and blood of the first four men: Jaguar Quitze, Jaguar Night, Mahucutah, and True Jaguar. These first humans were remarkably wise and could see to the very edges of the universe, rivaling the gods themselves. Fearing their creation was too perfect, the gods blew a mist over the humans' eyes, clouding their vision so they would only see what was close to them. Thus, humans were made to be intelligent and grateful, but humbled by their limited perspective of the world.
The Moral
True humanity is found in the balance of great wisdom and the humility to recognize our limitations before the divine.
“Of yellow corn and of white corn they made their flesh; of corn-meal dough they made the arms and the legs of man.”
Fun Fact
Maize is so central to Mayan culture that many contemporary Mayan communities still refer to themselves as 'the people of the corn.'
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Creation of Humans from Maize?
The story teaches that while humans possess divine wisdom, they must remain humble. It emphasizes that our purpose is to honor our creators and respect the natural world that sustains us.
Why did the Mayan gods choose maize to create humans?
Maize was the most sacred and essential crop in Mayan civilization. By making humans from corn, the myth highlights the deep, inseparable connection between the people and their land.
What were the gods' previous failed attempts at creating humans?
Before corn, the gods tried making humans out of mud, which crumbled and couldn't speak, and wood, which had no soul and forgot to worship their creators.
Who are the four animals that helped the gods find the maize?
The fox, the coyote, the parrot, and the crow guided the gods to the mountain of Paxil. These animals are honored for revealing the secret location of the yellow and white corn.
What is the significance of the gods clouding the humans' vision?
The gods realized the first humans were as knowledgeable as themselves, which felt like a threat. By clouding their vision, they ensured humans would remain distinct from the gods and focus on their earthly duties.
What is the Popol Vuh?
The Popol Vuh is the 'Book of the People,' a sacred narrative that documents the mythology and history of the K'iche' Maya people of Guatemala.
