What are Mayan Names?

Mayan names are the names used by the ancient Mayan people of Central America. The Mayans were a powerful and influential civilization that existed for centuries in the region now known as Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Belize. They had their own language, culture, and religion, and their names reflected their beliefs and values.

The Meaning Behind Mayan Names

Mayan names often have a spiritual or religious meaning. For example, the Mayan name “Ahau” means “sun” or “lord”, while “Chac” means “rain” or “rain god”. Other Mayan names may be derived from animals, plants, or even from the stars. Mayan names also often contain the suffix “-tzin”, which means “lord” or “noble”.

Popular Mayan Names

Some of the most popular Mayan names include Ahau, Chac, K’in, Ix, and Ahmak. Other popular names include Itzamna, Kinich Ahau, Ixchel, and Chac Mool. These names are still used by the modern Mayan people today.

Naming Traditions

In traditional Mayan culture, names were often chosen based on the day of birth. For example, a baby born on a Monday might be named “Ahau”, while a baby born on a Wednesday might be named “Chac”. The naming tradition also included the use of a middle name, which was often the name of a Mayan god or goddess.

Conclusion

Mayan names are an important part of the traditional Mayan culture. They often have spiritual or religious meanings and are still used by the modern Mayan people today. Knowing the meaning behind these names can help us to better understand the ancient Mayan culture and beliefs.