What were the Mayan rituals for the sun and moon?

The Mayans had various rituals and ceremonies dedicated to the sun and moon. They believed that these celestial bodies played significant roles in their daily lives and religious practices.

For the sun, the Mayans conducted rituals to honor and appease it. They believed that the sun was a powerful deity and its movements influenced their agricultural cycles. One of the most important rituals was the New Fire Ceremony, which took place every 52 years. During this ceremony, the Mayans extinguished all fires in their homes and temples and then relit them using a sacred fire. This symbolized the renewal of time and the sun's energy.

The Mayans also had rituals associated with the moon. They believed that the moon had a direct influence on fertility and the growth of crops. The lunar cycles were closely observed, and specific rituals were performed during different phases of the moon. For example, during a full moon, the Mayans would conduct ceremonies to honor the moon goddess, Ix Chel. These rituals often involved offerings, prayers, and dances to seek her blessings for fertility and abundance.

Overall, the Mayans had a deep reverence for the sun and moon, and their rituals reflected their belief in the power and importance of these celestial bodies in their lives.