Palenque in ancient times was called “Lakam Ha” by its inhabitants which means “big water”. In Palenque the abundance of water was different from other Mayan civilizations that struggled to retain water. This fertile land of water and vegetation unburdened the people at Palenque and allowed them to dedicate themselves to other explorations such as science and religion. The abundant water supply gave the Palenquens freedom from stress.
Water also played a role in religion. The Mayan's underworld was connected to aqueducts . The dead achieved rebirth through underground caves, 9 systems of aqueducts exist as well as 9 steps of the underworld. This cleansing of the aqueducts is symbolic of reincarnation and fertility.
I believe that by examining the importance of water at the site of Palenque we will realize that water is generative of their entire way of life and integral to understanding the Mayan's ancient culture.
Ideas of water and their myths, that might be useful.
ReplyDeleteMaya mythology - Their Wives
Caha-Paluma Meaning "falling water," she was a woman created specifically to be the wife of Balam-Quitzé. Cakixia Meaning "water of parrots," she was a woman created specifically to be the wife of Iqi-Balam. Choimha Meaning "beautiful water", she was a woman created by the gods specifically to marry B'alam Agab. Tzununiha Meaning "house of the water," she was a woman created specifically to be the wife of one of the first men, Mahucatah.
http://www.experiencefestival.com/a/Maya_mythology/id/1894229