Key Info

- Feathered serpent

- Creator deity who contributed to the creation of mankind

- Battles with his brother Tezcatlipocas shaped the world and humanity's destiny in both positive and negative ways

- Has anthropomorphic forms and numerous other aspect "forms" such as Ehecatl the wind god

Brief Bio

Quetzalcōātl, whose name translates to "Feathered Serpent," is one of the most important and complex deities in the pantheon of Mesoamerican cultures, particularly the Aztec and Toltec civilizations. His origins are ancient, and his significance spans a wide range of aspects.

Often depicted as a magnificent serpent adorned with the vibrant feathers of the quetzal bird, Quetzalcōātl embodied a duality of earth and sky, representing both the physical and the spiritual realms. He was widely revered as a god of wind, air, and wisdom. More profoundly, he was associated with learning, knowledge, and the arts. Mythical accounts attribute to him the creation of humanity (sometimes from the bones of previous generations) and the bringing of maize (corn), a vital staple, to the people.

Beyond his creative and benevolent aspects, Quetzalcōātl was also linked to the morning star (the planet Venus) and sometimes the evening star. He was seen as a bringer of civilization and order, teaching people agriculture, calendar systems, and ethical conduct. In some traditions, he is portrayed as a priest-king who led a golden age of peace and prosperity, only to be forced into exile or to depart, with promises of a future return.

The figure of Quetzalcōātl is rich with symbolism and varying interpretations across different Mesoamerican groups and time periods. He represents a powerful force of creation, knowledge, and the cyclical nature of existence, remaining a central and enduring figure in the study of pre-Columbian mythology and religion.