- Tláloc (Classical Nahuatl: Tláloc [ˈtɬaːlok]) is the god of rain in Aztec religion. He was also a deity of earthly fertility and water, worshipped as a giver of life and sustenance.
- Befitting his name, Tlaloc rained the nectar of the earth upon it. It rained more and more, turning first into a storm and then into a hurricane.
- In this article, we will explore the mythology and significance of Tlaloc, examining his role in Aztec religion and how he was worshipped by the ancient people.
- In the various Mesoamerican cultures Tláloc appears as Dzahui for the Mixtec, Tajίn for the Totonac, Chupithripeme for the Tarascan and Cocijo for the Zapotec.
- What can be said for certain regarding Tlaloc’s history is that one of the shrines on top of the Templo Mayor at Tenochtitlan was dedicated to him.
- It is assumed that these two deities represented these two dualities in Aztec culture. Tlaloc is portrayed as a being with a grimacing face and large fangs.
- Some of the most important Aztec temples have been dedicated to the water deity. Tlaloc was responsible for imminent and abundant rains.
- During Aztec times (14th to 16th century), Tlaloc’s cult was apparently considered extremely important and had spread throughout Mexico.
- Tlaloc is the god of rain, lightning and thunder. He is a fertility god, but also a wrathful deity. He is responsible for both floods and droughts.