What is cihuacoatl?

Cihuacoatl is a deity in Aztec mythology who is often associated with fertility, motherhood, and childbirth. Her name, which means "snake woman" in Nahuatl, reflects her connection to snakes, which were considered symbols of rebirth and renewal in Aztec culture.

Cihuacoatl was often depicted as a fearsome and powerful figure, with serpents adorning her head and shoulders. She was believed to play a crucial role in human reproduction and was called upon by women seeking to conceive or give birth safely.

In Aztec religious practices, Cihuacoatl was often honored with offerings and rituals, particularly during times of pregnancy and childbirth. She was also associated with the earth and agriculture, as her role in ensuring the continuation of life extended beyond human reproduction to the natural world.

Overall, Cihuacoatl was a significant figure in Aztec mythology, representing the cycle of life, death, and rebirth that was central to their worldview.