This dissertation describes for the first time in detail a manuscript held by the Royal Tropical Institute in Amsterdam, known as Izcatqui. This manuscript is written in Nahuatl or the Aztec... Show moreThis dissertation describes for the first time in detail a manuscript held by the Royal Tropical Institute in Amsterdam, known as Izcatqui. This manuscript is written in Nahuatl or the Aztec language, in the 18th century. This study has shown just how complex and multi-layered this book is. It contains Nahuatl translations of Spanish source texts from as early as the 15th century. These range from texts on the Gregorian calendar, liturgy, astrology, agriculture and medicine. Not only includes the manuscript a variety of sources, its content was also known in several manuscripts in other indigenous languages. This study showcases the interest and collaboration of people from local and non-local descent to translate and transfer knowledge from one cultural background to the other. Show less
The specific time-count made up of the combination of 20 signs and 13 numbers (260 days), was one of the essential traits of ancient Mesoamerican civilisations. Interestingly, this calendar system... Show moreThe specific time-count made up of the combination of 20 signs and 13 numbers (260 days), was one of the essential traits of ancient Mesoamerican civilisations. Interestingly, this calendar system persists in some contemporary communities of Southern Mexico and Guatemala, where __daykeepers__, specialists in traditional healing and divination, still utilize it. The present study comprises a documentation of one of these calendars, among the Ayook people of Oaxaca, Mexico. The aim was to record the sacred count of the days, still managed effectively by women, along with its relationship to other culturally significant symbolism, for instance in the realm of ritual, divination, world vision perceptions, and origin narratives. This work expects to shed light on Mesoamerican calendars research, but also provide a respectful and dignified description of Ayook People__s heritage. Show less
