VOICED: Indigenas mayas piden vida mejor

In the west of Guatemala, Mayan spiritual guides prepare for a ritual at the Zaculeu archaeological site. They offer resins, candles, seeds, sugar, and chocolates, and begin prayers in their native language. The site, built between 250 and 600 AD, is significant as the Mayan solar calendar marks the end of a 5200-year cycle on December 21. While some associate this date with the end of civilization, the Mayans see it as the start of a new era. Their prayers focus on harmony, understanding, and forgiveness for harm done to nature, hoping their ancestors and the Creator will listen.

What items are used as offerings in the Mayan ritual?

• Incense and water

• Stones and feathers

• Tree resins, candles, seeds, sugar, and chocolates

• Flowers and fruits

Where is the Mayan ritual taking place?

• Zaculeo Archaeological Center

• Chichen Itza

• Tikal

• Copán

According to the Mayan solar calendar, what significant event occurs on December 21?

• The start of the rainy season

• A solar eclipse

• The end of a 5200-year cycle

• The beginning of a new year

How do the Mayans view the end of the 5200-year cycle?

• As a time for celebration

• As the beginning of a new era

• As the end of the world

• As a period of mourning

What do the Mayans pray for during the ritual?

• Victory in battle

• Harmony, understanding, and forgiveness for environmental harm

• Wealth and prosperity

• Good health and long life