The legend of the Five Suns is a cornerstone of Mesoamerican cosmology, particularly prominent in the traditions of the Aztec and earlier cultures of central Mexico. This intricate narrative, passed down through generations via oral tradition and later codified in codices like the Codex Chimalpopoca, tells of a cyclical creation and destruction of the world, each epoch ruled by a different sun god and populated by different forms of beings. It is important to remember that this is a story, a traditional explanation of the universe and human existence, not a historical or scientific account. We explore it here for its rich cultural and historical significance.

Origins and Cultural Background

The Five Suns myth flourished in the cultural landscape of Mesoamerica, particularly during the rise of Teotihuacan (c. 100 BCE – 550 CE) and later adopted and adapted by the Aztec civilization (c. 1345 – 1521 CE). These societies were deeply connected to the natural world, their lives intricately woven with the rhythms of agriculture, the movements of the sun and moon, and the unpredictable forces of nature. Time was not linear but cyclical, reflecting the agricultural cycle of planting, growth, harvest, and dormancy. This cyclical worldview is central to the Five Suns myth, which describes a series of cosmic ages that begin, flourish, and ultimately collapse.

The people of Teotihuacan and the Aztecs viewed the world as a precarious balance between opposing forces: light and darkness, order and chaos, life and death. They believed that the gods constantly sacrificed themselves to maintain this balance and that humans, too, had a role to play in sustaining the cosmic order through rituals and offerings. The Five Suns myth provided a framework for understanding their place in the universe, their relationship with the gods, and the constant threat of destruction.

Character/Creature Description: Quetzalcoatl

A central figure in the Five Suns myth, and indeed throughout Mesoamerican mythology, is Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent. He is not to be seen as a deity to be worshipped, but rather as a symbolic representation of certain principles. Often depicted as a serpent covered in quetzal feathers, representing the union of earth and sky, he embodies duality, wisdom, knowledge, and creation. He is a complex figure, sometimes depicted as a bringer of civilization and learning, at other times as a trickster or a self-sacrificing hero. His attributes are primarily symbolic. The feathers represent the heavens, while the serpent represents the earth. He is seen as a benevolent force in many of the creation accounts, often working to benefit humankind, but he is also subject to the limitations and flaws inherent in the cosmic drama.

Main Story / Narrative Retelling

The story begins with the first sun, Nahui-Ocelotl, the Sun of Jaguar. This age was ruled by the god Tezcatlipoca, who transformed himself into a sun. The world was populated by giants, but this era ended in destruction when jaguars devoured all living beings.

The second sun, Nahui-Ehecatl, the Sun of Wind, was ruled by Quetzalcoatl. During this age, humans were transformed into monkeys. The world was destroyed by powerful winds that swept everything away.

The third sun, Nahui-Quiahuitl, the Sun of Rain, was ruled by Tlaloc, the rain god. This era saw the world populated by turkeys. The world was destroyed by a fiery rain that scorched the earth.

The fourth sun, Nahui-Atl, the Sun of Water, was ruled by Chalchiuhtlicue, the goddess of water. This age saw the world populated by fish. The world was destroyed by a great flood that drowned all living things.

The fifth sun, Nahui-Ollin, the Sun of Movement, is the age in which we currently live, according to the myth. This sun is ruled by Tonatiuh, the sun god. The prophecy states that this age will end with a great earthquake and famine.

The creation of this fifth sun involved a great sacrifice. The gods gathered in Teotihuacan, debating who would become the sun. Two gods volunteered: Nanahuatzin, a humble and sickly god, and Teucciztecatl, a proud and wealthy god. Teucciztecatl hesitated when it came time to throw himself into the fire, but Nanahuatzin bravely leaped into the flames. Ashamed, Teucciztecatl followed. Nanahuatzin emerged as the sun, Tonatiuh, and Teucciztecatl became the moon, Metztli.

However, the sun remained motionless in the sky. The other gods realized that the sun needed nourishment, and they willingly sacrificed themselves to give it the energy to move across the sky. This act of self-sacrifice established the cosmic order and the need for human sacrifice to sustain the sun and prevent the end of the world.

Symbolism and Meaning

The Five Suns myth is rich with symbolism. Each sun represents a different stage in the evolution of the world and humanity. The destruction of each sun signifies the impermanence of existence and the cyclical nature of time. The specific elements that cause the destruction – jaguars, wind, rain, water, and earthquake – represent the powerful forces of nature that can both sustain and destroy life.

The myth also reflects the importance of sacrifice in Mesoamerican culture. The self-sacrifice of the gods to create and sustain the sun demonstrates the belief that life and prosperity are dependent on offering something of value. Human sacrifice, while a practice that is ethically problematic by modern standards, was seen as a way to repay the gods for their sacrifice and to ensure the continuation of the cosmic order.

The story also highlights the values of humility and bravery, as embodied by Nanahuatzin, who became the sun through his willingness to sacrifice himself, while the proud Teucciztecatl only followed out of shame.

Modern Perspective

The Five Suns myth continues to resonate in modern culture. It has inspired numerous works of literature, art, and film. The cyclical nature of the myth and its themes of destruction and rebirth are often used to explore contemporary issues such as environmental degradation, social inequality, and the threat of global catastrophe. The myth also serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Mesoamerica and the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge and traditions. In cultural studies, the myth provides valuable insights into the worldview, beliefs, and values of ancient Mesoamerican societies.

Conclusion

The Five Suns cosmogony is a powerful and enduring story that provides a glimpse into the worldview of ancient Mesoamerican civilizations. It is a reminder of their deep connection to the natural world, their understanding of the cyclical nature of time, and their belief in the importance of sacrifice. It’s important to remember that this is a cultural story, not a literal account of creation. As Muslims, we understand that Allah is the sole Creator and Sustainer of the universe, and He is the only one worthy of worship.

The Five Suns myth, however, remains a valuable part of our collective human heritage. It is a testament to the power of the human imagination and the enduring tradition of storytelling that connects us to the past and allows us to explore the complexities of human existence. By studying and understanding these myths, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human cultures and the enduring power of the human spirit.