Ahuiateteo- Aztec GroupCollective"Pleasure Gods"
Description
Five gods whose names all begin with macuil, "five." They bestowed the pleasures of gambling and the body, then struck down with disease anyone who took too much. A gambler prayed to them before a high-stakes match and feared them after.
Mythology & Lore
The Five Pleasures
Five gods, all named with macuil, "five," drawn from the day signs of the 260-day ritual calendar. Macuilxochitl, Five Flower, led them as the god of games, dance, and flowers. Each of the five governed a pleasure the body craved.
Those who sought success in indulgence made offerings to the appropriate god. A gambler before a high-stakes match. A musician before a performance. The Ahuiateteo could grant luck and inspiration. The Florentine Codex records the prayers and offerings made to secure their favor.
With the other hand, they punished. The same gods who kindled desire could afflict the lustful with disease and disfigurement. Those who overindulged found the Pleasure Gods turning from patrons to punishers. Relief came only through confession before a priest and sacrifice to appease the gods whose gifts had been abused.