Chak Ek' and K'in Ahaw The Cosmic Battle in Mayan Mythology

The transcript explores Mayan mythology, focusing on Chak Ek’ (Venus) and K’in Ahaw (the Sun). It describes Venus's 584-day cycle, recognized by the Maya, and its significance. The narrative details Chak Ek’s attacks on various gods, causing chaos and affecting the world order. The cycle of conflict between Venus and the Sun is highlighted, illustrating the alternation between order and chaos in the world.

In Mayan mythology, what celestial body does Chak Ek’ represent?

• Jupiter

• The Moon

• Mars

• Venus

How long is the Venus cycle identified by the ancient Maya?

• 584 days

• 1000 days

• 720 days

• 365 days

What significant event occurs when Venus reappears as the Morning Star?

• The start of a new year

• Chak Ek’ rises from the underworld

• The end of the rainy season

• A solar eclipse

Who was Chak Ek’s first target in his quest to bring discord?

• Hun Ajaw

• K’awiil

• A mysterious stranger

• The god of maize

What form does the Sun take each night according to the myth?

• A serpent

• A jaguar

• A dragon

• A turtle

During which season does Chak Ek’ spear the jaguar sun?

• The rainy season

• The winter season

• The dry season

• The harvest season

What happens to the maize god after being speared by Chak Ek’?

• He becomes a star

• He disappears forever

• He is buried in the underworld

• He is reborn immediately

What marks the summer solstice in the myth?

• The appearance of Ak Na'ak

• The end of the dry season

• The rebirth of the maize god

• The rise of a new sun

Who establishes a new order after the chaos caused by Chak Ek’?

• K’awiil

• Chak Ek’ himself

• Hun Ajaw

• The maize god

What is the ultimate outcome of the struggles between Venus and the Sun?

• The victory of the Sun

• An endless cycle of order and chaos

• A permanent state of order

• A permanent state of chaos