Aluxo'ob: The Mayan Goblins

Starting this blog with a legend close to home...

When you think of ancient civilizations, I'm sure some will think of the Mayans. Most people know them for the Mayan calendar and their prediction of the end of the world. I will say I feel they weren't too far off. But the Mayans were more than just their famous calendar. They were an advanced civilization for the time and had a rich culture. One of the most fascinating aspects was their legends and myths.

Aluxo'ob, or Alux, are described as tiny little goblin creatures (think knee high). They are known to be trickster spirits that reside in forests, caves, and fields. Now, before, they really weren't much of a problem. They stayed in place where the Mayans were not typically found. But then, the Mayans expanded. Farmers started building land on the places where Alux lived. Farmers started getting tormented by their shenanigans.

Alux, unless tamed, will scream, create large gusts of wind, and throw stones at nearby people on their land. Now, the farmer can tame the Alux by a seven week process and by the help of a "X'men." The X'men will take mud from the land and a few drops of the land owner's blood. They then say the owner's name and place the Alux in a good place to guard on the land. This is said to create a strong connection between the two. I guess.

The Alux then serves the land owner for seven years. Aluxo'ob ward off thieves or people trespassing. Honestly, it sounded like they warded off anyone regardless if they had negative intent or not. They also provided good harvest for those seven years. They summoned rain and patroled the field at night. But this was only for seven years. I've read two different things. One source says that the farmer must seal the Alux in a house with the doors and windows shut or else it will create chaos on everyone. The other source has a bit more intense idea. They claim the the Alux will serve you seven years and then drag you down to the underworld. Basically, you get seven years until you die. Then if someone else takes over the farm, they have a choice to make. Tame the wild Aluxo'ob or deal with its antics.

The Alux was also said to have stopped people passing by to ask for food. If the person refuses, the Alux will go on a horrible rampage and spread illness everywhere. If the person accepts, the Alux will offer protection from thieves and good luck. They were weird little fellas. Sometimes they seem ok. But I guess, they are trickster spirits after all.