Centeotl

Ensures the growth of maize; sustains human life.

Aztec God of Maize and Sustenance

Centeōtl (pronounced sen-TEH-ohtl) is the revered Aztec god of maize, embodying the lifeblood of Mesoamerican civilization. His name combines cintli (dried maize on the cob) and teōtl (deity), reflecting his sacred role as the giver of nourishment and vitality. As maize was central to Aztec diet, economy, and spirituality, Centeōtl held a vital place in their pantheon.

• Parentage: According to different sources, he is the son of the solar deity Piltzintecuhtli and either the earth goddess Tlazolteotl or the fertility goddess Xochiquetzal.

• Consorts: He is often associated with Chicomecōatl, the goddess of agriculture and sustenance.

• Symbolism: Centeōtl represents fertility, renewal, and the cyclical nature of life. His image often appears in codices adorned with maize motifs.

• Rituals: He was honored during major agricultural festivals, where offerings and ceremonies sought to ensure bountiful harvests.

• Duality: Some traditions depict Centeōtl as having both male and female aspects, symbolizing the balance of life forces within the maize plant.

Centeōtl’s mythology intertwines with the tale of Quetzalcoatl, who gifted maize to humanity, reinforcing Centeōtl’s role as a divine provider. His legacy endures as a symbol of sustenance, community, and the sacred bond between people and the earth.