"AQ’AB’AL"  - Mayan spirit of dawn

"AQ’AB’AL" - Mayan spirit of dawn

Aq'ab'al is a Maya spirit who presides over the sun's daily journey across the sky. He is often represented as a young man carrying a sunbeam on his shoulders, and his name means "the one who carries the sun." Aq'ab'al is said to bring happiness and good fortune to those who please him, and his presence is said to be especially strong at dawn.

Aq'ab'al is Mayan spirit of dawn

In Maya mythology, Aq'ab'al is the son of the sun god Kʼinich Ajaw and the moon goddess Ixchel. He is also the brother of the wind god Wayeb and the rain god Chac. Like his siblings, Aq'ab'al is often associated with one of the four cardinal directions. In his case, he is linked to the east, where the sun rises each morning. Aq'ab'al is also sometimes portrayed as a jaguar or eagle, two animals that are also closely associated with the sun in Maya culture. Whether depicted as a young man or an animal, Aq'ab'al is always shown wearing a feathered headdress, a symbol of his status as a celestial being.

jaguar represent the Mayan spirit aq'ab'al

In Maya culture, the aq'ab'al spirit is associated with polar opposites. For example, it can represent the contrast between dawn and dusk, or the difference between hot and cold. This spirit also symbolizes renewal and change, as well as the end of boredom. If you're looking to do something completely different, the aq'ab'al spirit may be calling to you. In Maya tradition, this spirit is often seen as a harbinger of new beginnings. So if you're feeling ready for a change, don't be afraid to heed its call. You never know where it might lead you.

Mayan spirit of opposites

Mayan mythology tells the story of Aq'ab'al, the spirit of the dawn. Aq'ab'al is said to guide the dead to the afterlife and to protect the living from harm. He is often depicted as a dark, shadowy figure, sometimes with wings. In some stories, Aq'ab'alis also associated with poetry and music. The Mayans believed that Aq'ab'al could be invoked to bring good fortune or to ward off evil. Today, Aq'ab'alis still revered by many who follow Mayan traditions. offerings of food and drink are often made to him, and his image can be found in many homes and temples. To some, he is a guardian angel; to others, a bringer of luck and good fortune. Whatever he may be, Aq'ab'al remains an important part of Mayan culture and spirituality.

 Aq'ab'al bag

Traditional Mayan textiles are handwoven with great care and skill. The patterns and colors of the fabric are often significant, carrying meaning and symbolism. For example, the Aq'ab'al pattern is traditionally associated with the Mayan jaguar god. In contemporary Maya culture, the Aq'ab'al symbol is often used to represent strength, power, and protection.  That is why we named our shoulder bags by that Mayan spirit.

Mayan woman weaver

The Aq'ab'al Mayan spirit bag combines a traditional Mayan textile with a modern leather bag design. The result is a stylish and unique accessory that also carries a powerful symbolic meaning. Whether you choose to wear it as a fashion statement or as a reminder of your connection to the Maya tradition, the Aq'ab'al Mayan spirit bag is sure to add a touch of beauty and significance to your life. 

Go to our shop and check out our Aq'ab'al  shoulder bags. 

 

 

Back to blog