Centeotl
Also known as: Centéotl, Maize Lord
Mythological Narrative
The Aztec god of maize and sustenance. Centeotl represents the sacred maize plant that sustained Mesoamerican civilization.
Scholarly Commentary & Evolution
## Lord of Maize
Centeotl ('Maize Deity') was among the most important Aztec gods, as maize was the foundation of all life. Without his blessing, the people would starve.
### Child of Tlazolteotl
Centeotl was born to the earth goddess Tlazolteotl. After his birth, he descended into the earth and from his body grew the essential crops: maize from his hair, cotton from his ears, seeds from his nose.
### Annual Renewal
The young maize god was celebrated in festivals marking planting and harvest. His death and rebirth paralleled the agricultural cycle.
Cross-Pantheon Parallels & Archetypes
Academic Discussion & Critique
Exchange peer-reviewed hypotheses, comparative Indo-European etymologies, and archaeological field interpretations regarding Centeotl.
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