Mediators in a universal discourse
Article Abstract:
Maya sky mythology was the expression of a worldview in which nature and culture were not regarded as separate. The Maya watched the skies to gain knowledge which they believed would help them influence the gods to act in their favor. For the Maya, cosmic events were associated with all aspects of human life, including politics, history and life after death. As Maya civilization developed, the cosmic myths and temporal cycles became more elaborate.
Publication Name: Archaeology
Subject: Anthropology/archeology/folklore
ISSN: 0003-8113
Year: 1993
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Dialogue with the firmament
Article Abstract:
Astrology is an ancient practice. Some scientific phenomena follow heavenly cycles, such as tides and women's menstrual cycles. People have interpreted cosmological events in earthly terms for most of human history, partly because many objects in the solar system pass across the Earth's night sky in predictable patterns. Astrologers have long held the position in ancient cultures that physicists do in contemporary times.
Publication Name: Archaeology
Subject: Anthropology/archeology/folklore
ISSN: 0003-8113
Year: 1998
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Solving the mystery of the Nasca lines
Article Abstract:
A soluton to the mystery of Peru's Nazca lines involving rituals related to the acquisition of water is given. Both radial and grid structures were used in the Inca empire to partition land to indicate distribitution of water rights. The connection between Nazca lines and surface water courses can be clearly shown.
Publication Name: Archaeology
Subject: Anthropology/archeology/folklore
ISSN: 0003-8113
Year: 2000
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