The Mayan Civilization: Science, Astronomy, and Mysterious Collapse — Fexingo History

Maya Writing: The Story of the Chilam Balam Books

June 28 · 6 min · Season 3 · Episode 123 · 3.3 MB
0:00-6:10

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In this episode of Fexingo History, Lucas and Luna explore the Maya literary tradition through the Books of Chilam Balam, colonial-era manuscripts written in Yucatec Maya using Latin script. These books preserve centuries of Maya knowledge: prophecies, history, medicine, astronomy, and rituals. We discuss the destruction of Maya codices by Spanish friars, the survival of texts like the Chilam Balam of Chumayel, and the role of the jaguar priest or 'chilam' as a prophetic authority. We also examine how the books blend pre-Columbian calendars with Christian elements, and what they reveal about Maya resistance and adaptation under colonial rule. Specific books covered include those from Chumayel, Tizimín, and Maní. The episode also touches on the controversial 'prophecy of Katun 13 Ahau' and its interpretation. A must for anyone interested in Maya writing, colonial history, or indigenous resilience.

#Maya #ChilamBalam #MayaWriting #ColonialMaya #YucatecMaya #Chumayel #Tizimin #Mani #MayaProphecy #MayaCalendar #SpanishColonization #DiegoDeLanda #MayaCodices #JaguarPriest #Katun13Ahau #MayaResistance #History #FexingoHistory

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