One of Mesoamerica's oldest religions, the Aztec is one. The Aztec gods are facing in different directions to see the sunrise. Quetzalcoatl faces East. The Sun rises from the east and sways from 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 religion of the ancient Mesoamericans
Ancient Mesoamerican religion emphasized the centrality of gods in every day life. Regular rituals included offering sacrifices of human beings as well as various offerings. A complex priestly hierarchy was established in these societies. The construction of temples was based on the same architectural design, with truncated Pyramids with sanctuaries on top. The religion also encouraged a shared worldview as well as the use of spatial symbols.
Gods
Aztec gods were depicted as many different creatures depending on their function. Many were revered and feared for their violent ways, but there were some that had more positive and uplifting qualities. For example, Mictlantecuhtli was the Aztec god of death. After being sacrificed as an infant, the Aztecs believed she had fallen into the underworld. Miclantecuhtl became her husband, an Aztec god death. Mictlantecuhtli exhibited a very graphic appearance with a wide mouth, and a necklace full of eyeballs.
Sacrifices
Sacrifices are an important part the Aztec religion. They were used to achieve social status as well as income. Human sacrifices were an essential part of the Aztec religion, which relied on tributes from conquered regions. Higher status and higher places in society were granted to those who are considered the greatest warriors. They were also granted special weapons and clothing by their emperors. These rewards were appreciated by the entire Aztec community.
Sacred fire
Aztec religion believed sacred fire played an integral role. They believed the world was made up of three levels, including the underworld (the earth), the earth, and finally the heavens. The Templo Mayor (Temple of the Mayor), the centre of this system, connected the three realms. The heavenly domain was the realm where the gods reside, while underworld is the realm of human beings.
Tlaloc
The Aztec religion has many representations of the god Tlaloc. These representations of Tlaloc the rain god do not always match. Tlaloc often appears in multiple forms and in various places, including caves or on mountaintops. Tlaloc might be depicted with various items that symbolise the fertility of earth. Tlaloc can also be shown alongside land animals, like the jaguar.
Quetzalcoatl
Quetzalcoatl the Aztec God is associated with many myths. One popular myth describes the serpent-headed god Quetzalcoatl as the ruler over the mythic city Tollan. However, there is much disagreement about the historical accuracy of the myths. In fact, historians have questioned the historical accuracy many myths and legends that surround Quetzalcoatl.