| The Mesoamerican people often consider humans to be like maize or flowers that are planted on the surface of the earth, born to die, but containing the seeds of regeneration. Through metaphor, particular subjects are given a vivid range of associations and meanings. At times the similarities shared between a subject and its metaphoric comparison reflect a real and special bond. Quite frequently, these relationships are expressed through rituals. The magical efficacy of particular agricultural sacrifice, for example, depended on the fact that the victim not only reflected processes of nature but actually embodied them during the ritual act. The sacred area or ceremonial precinct of Tenochtitlan came to consist of the Templo Mayor at the center with other temples and shrines eventually built around it. The whole complex was surrounded by a wall on four sides. The sacred area could only be entered through the four gates which were oriented to the cardinal directions, as were the great causeways which lead out of the cities. |
