NAWALES
The Day Signs of the Mayan Calendar
Kenneth Johnson
When we talk about the Mayan Calendar, we are really talking about two calendars—one that measures ordinary time, and one that measures sacred time. These two calendars interpenetrate in such a way as to integrate and synthesize the secular and sacred dimensions of reality. In this book we shall be primarily concerned with the calendar of ritual time, usually called the chol q’ij or tzolk’in and sometimes referred to as the Ritual Almanac or Divinatory Almanac. The chol q’ij is a unique method of reckoning time. It consists of twenty named days combined with thirteen numbers. Each day-name is repeated thirteen times during the Calendar cycle, for a total of 260 days (13 x 20 = 260). The twenty days, with their Mayan names and some of their most common English meanings, are seen here.
Because the chol q’ij is comprised of twenty days but only thirteen numbers, the cycle of days and numbers will soon set up an interlocking rhythm of its own design. The rhythm of the Sacred Calendar is circular; many contemporary Calendar shamans insist that it has neither beginning nor end. It has certainly been the source of much confusion among those who are convinced that the Sacred Calendar “begins” with 1 Imox and must “end” with 13 Ajpu, so it is just as well to clear up some of the issues before proceeding.
The chol q’ij is a circle, not a straight line. To try to force a “beginning” or an “end” upon the circle of time is to impose our own Western linear concepts onto a world in which they have no place.
The 260 days of the Sacred Calendar can be arranged in diagram form (see next page). The diagram resembles a sort of calendar board, and there is evidence that calendar boards of one kind or another were used for divinatory purposes in ancient times. In contemporary Mayan spirituality, most Daykeepers have agreed to place B’atz’ (Yucatec: Chuen) at the beginning of the count of the days, in accordance with the primacy of that day in traditional K’iche’ Maya communities. Since my instructors in the art of Mayan Astrology are K’iche’, this is the order that will be followed here, beginning with 8 B’atz’, the day upon which the highland K’iche’ always celebrate the “chol q’ij New Year.”
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What, then, does the Sacred Calendar symbolize? Why thirteen numbers and twenty day-signs? What sort of cycle is this that chronicles the sacred dimension of time?
It is commonly said that the thirteen numbers correspond to the thirteen joints in the human body. These are: the two ankle joints, the two knees, the two hips, the hands, the elbows, the shoulder joints, and, finally, the neck or thirteenth joint. It is also a number frequently found in nature – thirteen rectangles on the carapace of a turtle, thirteen rattles on a rattlesnake’s tail.
The twenty day-signs may also be related to the human metaphor, the microcosm as macrocosm. The number 20 was regarded in ancient times as the number of humankind, because it is the number of all the digits—fingers and toes—on the human body. Thus, the equation 13 x 20 unites Heaven with humankind.
THE CALENDAR BOARD
Anthropologists working among the contemporary Maya have asked their informants what the Calendar symbolizes. The answer given by Mayan Calendar shamans is remarkably consistent: It is the term of pregnancy, the cycle of human gestation. This, they say, is the foundation of the Calendar, although scientifically, we know that the actual period of pregnancy is somewhat longer than 260 days. The chol q’ij is symbolic of the gestation period. It is primarily an earthly, human cycle.
All the same, various astronomical cycles may have contributed to the over-all symbolism of the chol q’ij. For example, 260 days is an interval between zenith passages in the Mayan country, the visibility cycle of Venus in regards to the moon can also be expressed as 260 days, and the moon itself has both a thirteen-day cycle of waxing as well as a twenty-day visibility cycle.
And though it is the cycle of human gestation that, after so many centuries, the Maya still cite as the basis of the chol q’ij, the gestation cycle itself is yet another metaphor. All the world's great myths are essentially concerned with the journey of human consciousness—the archetypal hero's journey. The Mayan Calendar is no different. Consciousness, like life, must journey from conception to full birth. The day-sign E’ signifies "the road"—what other indigenous Americans have called the Road of Life. In Yucatec Maya, the equivalent word eb also means "stairway"—perhaps in reference to the stairways that led to the top of Mayan temples and by which the ancient kings mounted to the world of the gods. The Calendar, as a symbol of the growth of human consciousness, leads us up the Pyramid of Time. It is the Road of Life, and its roots lie in the eternal journey we all must make, the journey from conception to birth.
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The Mayan universe is also based upon the concept that there are four essential, meaningful divisions of time and space. Long before the arrival of the Spanish, the cross was a common symbol among the Maya. It represented the fourfold Tree of Life which defined their world view and their universe. If the Calendar is a road of life, then life is a medicine wheel comprised of four directions – East West, North and South. This concept of the universe or cosmos as a quaternity is virtually universal and can be found in mystical systems all over the planet. Carl Jung taught that the human psyche itself is a fourfold entity..
Those who have some previous acquaintance with the Mayan Calendar may be surprised to note that the directions attributed to the day-signs here are different than those to be found in other standard works, whether academic or popular. In some of my own astrological work, I have also used these different directional correspondences, based on the ancient system from Classical times. While many Daykeepers acknowledge that the ancient system was different and that things must have changed at some point in the past, they are almost all in agreement in using the directions given here in their contemporary spiritual practice.
B’ATZ’
(CHUEN)
MASTER OF ALL THE ARTS
B’atz’ symbolizes the thread of life, time, development, and movement. It is the nawal of all the arts, of weaving, and of artists. This is a very favorable day to give voice to our intention that everything we need from the universe may be freely given to us. One meaning of this day is “monkey,” and monkeys were the patrons of the arts in Classical Mayan mythology. This is an auspicious day for all artistic projects. In fact, it is an auspicious day to begin projects of any kind, for this day-sign represents “the thread of life,” the weaving of the loom of existence. This is the best day upon which to be married.
Those born under the day-sign B’atz’ spin the thread of life with skill and grace. They can be lucky with money and lucky in love all at the same time. B’atz’ natives often show a significant talent for one or more of the fine arts; they can become excellent painters, writers, and musicians. At the same time, they are well grounded in reality. Those who are born upon this day are fortunate and enthusiastic about human relationships. Their biggest problem is that that they seek and expect perfection from others. Blessed with the ability to sail through life with ease, they just don’t understand why other people sometimes have difficulties getting by. B’atz’ natives can be a bit arrogant and egotistical; they can be dismissive and have little patience with those less fortunate than themselves. They place a high value on family and community, and tend to become more and more active in social and civic affairs as they mature and grow older. More often than not, they will end up as the leaders and authority figures.
Animal Totem: Monkey
E’
(EB)
THE ROAD OF LIFE
E’ symbolizes destiny, the road of life, thankfulness and benediction. It is the nawal of all roads and “road guides” (spiritual teachers). Upon this day we give thanks for the Road of Life upon which we continually walk, for E’ represents the Road itself. This nawal is the patron of travelers and the best possible day upon which to begin a journey. It is also a favorable day for the initiation of any business manner or for the signing of contracts. This is one of the four Year Lords.
E’ natives have an innate curiosity about the world around them, which makes them perpetual students of life. The most common expression of their curiosity is through travel, and their wanderings and explorations frequently bring them wisdom as they grow older. E’ natives commonly have a long, healthy life. They sincerely enjoy helping others. They tend to have numerous partners, for their restless spirit is seldom satisfied with a single relationship. Because of their intrinsic good nature, most of their relationships will be fortunate, though one could not exactly describe them as the most faithful of partners. Without a goal in mind, E’ natives can wander without a clear sense of direction. They may be as cheerful and enthusiastic as ever, but they have no destination in mind. They need to keep the end of the road in sight, and to have a goal towards which they strive. Perhaps their worst qualities arise when they invest themselves too strongly in their opinions, always needing to be right. E’ natives flourish in foreign countries and make cheerful, successful expatriates.
Animal Totem: Bobcat
AJ
(BEN)
THE RESURRECTION OF THE CORN
Aj symbolizes home, family, a stalk of sugar cane or corn, one’s vocation, a sprout, offspring, a cane or walking stick, seed; it also signifies a staff of authority (as carried by indigenous civic officers in Guatemala), power, and Maya Daykeepers; it is our stability, solidity, strength, resoluteness of character, and tenderness. It is the nawal of the home and of one’s children. This is the day to give thanks for the home in which we live, for this day is connected with the nourishment and flourishing of all things related to the home, whether human, animal or plant.
Aj people are decisive and authoritative, and mostly cheerful. Natives of Aj are capable of living fully and completely in this world; they are masters of the physical plane. They avoid the spotlight and prefer to work at home and behind the scenes, though usually with great authority. They are not big travelers; this day-sign is the nawal of hearth and home, as well as of the children in one’s house – Aj natives like to stay at home and usually favor their place of birth. Aj people are fiercely passionate about their ideals and desires, and their sense of commitment endows them with the energy to achieve things. They can be so intensely devoted to a cause that they lose their practicality, becoming insensitive to the needs of others. They can be overly emotional, tempestuous characters. At worst they are unable to manifest their talents and thus they sometimes live in poverty, but they usually prevail in the end, like the resurrected corn. Rich or poor, they typically have a talent for matters of the home, as well as for understanding and relating to children and nurturing the growth of plants.
Animal Totem: Armadillo
I’X
(IX)
THE JAGUAR
I’x symbolizes the jaguar, the spirit, force, energy, and vitality. It is the nawal of nature and of indigenous Mayan altars. It is the nawal of the seven shames: pride, ambition, envy, lying, crime, ingratitude, ignorance through laziness. Those who keep the days always set aside a special place or household altar for prayer, meditation, incense, candles, and so on. This is the day to give thanks that we have created such a sacred place in our lives. It is a day which may fruitfully be devoted to introspection and meditation, if the opportunity is there. It is also regarded as a favorable day upon which to practice any kind of divination. As regards the element of Water, I’x symbolizes the sacred energy inherent in fresh streams and running water.
I’x natives have a special relationship with Mother Earth. Since all good things come from Her, these people often become wealthy, sharing in Her abundance. I’x has a very feminine energy; even the men will seem somewhat androgynous. I’x natives are energetic and passionate. They have an abundance of strength, vigor and energy. Sometimes they need to take a wider vision; they can be so “earth-centered” and pragmatic that they may try to deny their magical side, but it usually catches up with them. Despite their enormous stamina, I’x natives sometimes have health issues. These are challenges and “wake-up calls” which are designed to make them aware of the mystic or healer within them. They will need to access their own personal magic in order to become the shamans and magicians that they really are. They may sometimes pursue their goals to the point of recklessness. They can be vain and quick-tempered. As participants in the geomantic power which flows through Mother Earth, I’x natives often have a special relationship with sacred sites. They can gain great energy from visiting such places.
Animal Totem: Jaguar
TZ’IKIN
(MEN)
THE VISION OF THE BIRD
Tz’ikin symbolizes the eagle or quetzal bird, wealth, and business negotiations. It is the nawal of economic well-being and good fortune. It is an auspicious day to give thanks and ask for economic propserity. It is the communication and mediation between Uk’ux Kaj and Uk’ux Ulew (Heart of Sky, Heart of Earth). Good fortune, good business, abundance, joy, prosperity, and art are some of its attributes, but so are pessimism and cold. Upon this day, we may thank the universe for whatever prosperity we currently enjoy while honestly expressing our intention that more abundance may enter our lives. This day is as fortunate for love as it is for money; pay attention to relationship issues. Pay attention to dreams as well, for this is a day upon which one may experience powerful and important revelations through dreams.
Natives of Tz’ikin “cry out” (like the eagle) for all good things, both material and spiritual. This day-sign is associated with breadth of vision, for the eagle can see great distances when he is far above, in the clouds. Tz’ikin people are often financially successful. They get frustrated if forced to punch a time clock and answer to other people, so they are most likely to succeed if they are their own bosses. They are clever, accurate, honest and truthful; many of them are also eloquent, which makes them good mediators between opposing points of view. Most of them are very sociable and popular, with lots of friends. This easy-going good cheer can be as much of an obstacle as an asset, for they can be erratic and get bored easily, and their social butterfly tendencies can make them eccentric and forgetful. They are usually fortunate in relationships. They may become pessimistic when the world does not respond immediately to their visions and dreams. They need to keep their spirits up and not become discouraged. When they get serious about manifesting those great dreams, they can bring the world of the divine from the clouds down to the earth.
Animal Totems: The eagle and the quetzal.
AJMAQ
(CIB)
FORGIVENESS
Ajmaq symbolizes pardon and pleasure, but is also associated with atheism and misbehavior. It can be the nawal of “all the faults.” It also represents Mother Earth – it is the nawal of the Earth itself. This is in part a day of the Otherworld, so it is good to remember friends and family members who have passed away from us, and to light a candle or two in their memory. If there is anything for which you seek forgiveness from the ancestors, today is the day to ask for it; the ancestors are listening, and they incline themselves favorably to our affairs. If all of this sounds complex and contradictory, it is. Ajmaq is one of the most symbolically complex of all the day-signs.
Ajmaq natives possess boundless curiosity, exploring people and situations around them but without drawing undue attention to themselves. They are typically clever, shrewd and astute; they may also be fortunate with money. They are analytical and not easily fooled. Ajmaq is associated with the ancestors, and Ajmaq people are often acting out themes and situations from their karmic past. They are eternal seekers. Despite their introversion, they tend to have quite a few relationships; though Ajmaq people are often overly responsible and even obsessive in some ways, they can be irresponsible or unfaithful in relationships. Ajmaq’s innate sense of pride may become inflated into vanity and conceit. Ajmaq natives can retreat and enclose themselves in a shell, refusing to share their feelings with others. This makes them seem gloomy rather than charming, and they can indeed be depressive. One of the best things about this sign of “forgiveness” is that even among those who stumble into difficulties, there is something in their intrinsic good nature which allows them to be forgiven by all. They also have an ability to forgive others, which is one of their best qualities.
Animal Totems: The vulture and the bee
NO’J
(CABAN)
THE VISION OF THE COSMOS
No’j symbolizes ideas, wisdom, memory and patience. It is the nawal of intelligence. This is a day dedicated to asking for wisdom, talent, and good thoughts. Upon this day, we may ask the universe to grant us creativity in all our endeavors, and the intelligence to find solutions to all our challenges. This day enlivens the intellect and enhances the eternal quest for wisdom. It is the nawal of the earthquake and seismic disturbances. According to the Maya, this is one of the best days to consult a diviner and seek for spiritual guidance. This is one of the four Year Lords.
This is the sign of the Thinker. No’j people are creative and clever. They love to read, but should not be mistaken for dreamy intellectuals who accomplish nothing. At best, their ideas are eminently practical and their problem-solving techniques are workable; this gives them natural leadership ability, and they frequently become pillars of their communities. This is a very masculine sign, and its natives have a masculine tone regardless of their own gender. Because they prefer the realm of the mind, they tend to live lives of extreme simplicity. They have one of the best relationship records of all the day-signs. They usually make wise choices in love, and they are able to weather the challenges which relationships bring throughout the years. They may sometimes be tactless and hurtful. Some can be overly proud of their clever ideas; vanity and self-importance are among their worst faults. In terms of the human body, No’j is associated with the brain. This day-sign has so much positive energy that it is one of the signs that harmonizes well with the higher, occasionally more difficult numbers.
Animal Totems: The woodpecker and the coyote
TIJAX
(ETZNAB)
OBSIDIAN KNIFE
Tijax symbolizes flint, obsidian, communication, gossip and education. It is an auspicious day for healers (curanderas) who “cut away” evils and illnesses. It is a day of communication, publicity, eloquence, teaching, medicine and healing; also fights, quarrels, vengeance, falsehood, and espionage. The world is full of potential road blocks and accidents. Upon this day, we pray for safety from all harm, and for the resolution of all conflict. This day has a special connection with healing and is favorable for health matters and the curing of disease.
Natives of Tijax make tremendous doctors and healers. Tijax is the sign of the surgeon. The obsidian knife cuts away disease and cleans out all that is in need of regeneration. Some natives of this day-sign are frail and prone to ill health. But their illnesses serve as an incentive, brought to them by their destiny, to learn the nature of true healing. If they can heal themselves, they can heal others. This is the archetype of the Wounded Healer. Tijax people are born contenders, always fighting for a cause. They may sometimes be quick to anger, which can get them into a great deal of trouble, but beneath the surface they are fragile and easily hurt. They can be fussy, demanding, and downright absent-minded. Their “cutting edge” talents can make them somewhat devious as well, and endow them with a talent for intrigue. In relationships, they frequently seek partners who are somewhat submissive in nature. Despite their cantankerous side, most of them are genuinely kind-hearted, with a great ability to care about others. They simply get worked up and cranky more easily than other folks. Their lives often seem subject to impulse; they are the ones who like to dance in lightning storms.
Animal Totems: The swordfish and the toucan
KAWOQ
(CAUAC)
THE UNIVERSAL COMMUNITY
Kawoq is the sign of the Divine Feminine, signifying wives, female healers, and especially midwives. It also symbolizes thunder, lightning, and cyclones, spiritual unrest and mental conflicts, spiritual contacts and communication. It is associated with the energy called koyopa or “blood lightning” which gives signs, signals and messages in the blood. It is sometimes said to signify the celestial home of the gods. Upon this day, we pray that there may always be harmony in our home lives and among our friends. Like the previous day, it is auspicious for all matters regarding health and healing.
Kawoq natives are sensitive, intelligent and imaginative. Their intuitive nature often endows them with artistic talent. They are good-natured, caring, extremely friendly, and kind. Friends and family matter more to them than achievement in the outside world. They are not terribly ambitious and tend to conform to predominant social mores. They are very attached to their families and find it difficult to abandon the family system and seek their own individual destinies. Even if they travel widely, they will always long for hearth and home. They can strangle their children with “smother love.” Although they are extremely romantic and relationship oriented, they often have trouble mediating between the demands of relationship and the original family, especially their mothers. This sign is very feminine. Kawoq women make excellent midwives and tend to have a very traditionally feminine appearance. Kawoq men may seem androgynous and possess a gift for communicating with women; but they too will experience the marital difficulties so characteristic of this day-sign because of their attachment to the birth family or the mother. Kawoq natives are also very psychic and clairvoyant.
Animal Totem: Turtle
AJPU
(AHAU)
THE HUNTER
Ajpu symbolizes leadership, struggle, heroism, death and hunting. It is the nawal of the sun, the day to ask for wisdom, talent, and physical fortitude. The hieroglyph represents the mythic hero Junajpu, who was a blowgun hunter. This day is also the nawal and patron of flowers. It is the day of mental and psychological tests and challenges, and of those who win such tests and challenges (like Junajpu). It is a day of prophets, fortune-tellers, psychics, diviners, a day for accuracy in divination and prophecy. It may also signify an eclipse. This is the day of the ancestors who have departed.
Ajpu natives are natural warriors, fighting for a cause. They have to face many tests and challenges in life; their heroism consists of meeting those challenges. Their biggest obstacle is that they may be blinded by their own light; they believe in themselves, sometimes too much so. Convinced that they are always right, they sometimes need to learn the hard way that this is not always true. Although they may be warriors, they are also mystics. A close relationship with the ancestors exists among the natives of Ajpu. These people have natural mediumistic or shamanic abilities. They can be among the finest psychics, clairvoyants, and diviners. They are often a bit “spaced out,” as well as subject to morbid apprehensions. If they can clear the fog away from the mirror of their perception, they can become true spiritual leaders, which is their ultimate destiny. Ajpu people often have theatrical abilities. They can be discriminating connoisseurs of food and wine as well. Like most natural artists, Ajpu people also tend to be romantics. As such, they may have many relationships. This is the day-sign of the sun, triumphant.
Animal Totem: human being.
IMOX
(IMIX)
THE LEFT HAND
Imox symbolizes the ‘left side” of reality, hence receptivity, receiving messages from other dimensions, and the ability to see into other worlds and dimensions; but also madness, disorder, nervousness, uncertainty and doubt. It is a sign of cooperation, for the left arm must cooperate and work well with the right. It is the nawal of the ocean, rivers and lakes, and a day for healing illnesses of the mind. The world is filled with psychological perils and stresses. Upon this day we pray for good mental health, both for ourselves and for all those around us. We pray that our dreams and visions may bring us beauty and wisdom rather than delusion and craziness. Since this day has a strong connection with water, to be close to a flowing river or stream or the ocean is beneficial upon this day.
Imox people like mystical things and may develop into artists, poets, and visionaries. They tend to be homebodies. They are seldom thrilled about working and can be downright lazy. They are a gentle lot, very loving and romantic. They also have a reputation for being very sensual; their relationships tend to be wild and passionate. Their close connection with visionary reality makes them seem highly charismatic. They often have a powerful hypnotic quality. At their best, they can bring the uncanny beauty of the “left side” into manifestation here on earth, and they are adept with dreamwork; but they can also become easily confused and find themselves cast adrift in the deep waters of the collective mind. They can be indecisive and wavering, doubtful of their own perceptions. If they lack spiritual and psychological maturity, they are likely to become deceptive, sneaky, underhanded and dishonest. Imox natives may seem highly organized, but their desire to compartmentalize everything is their own way of dealing with a reality which is less “real” to them than the world of visions and dreams. Imox natives do best when they live near the ocean. They draw power and inspiration from it.
Animal Totems: Crocodiles, sharks, dolphins, whales, and all sea creatures.
IQ’
(IK)
THE BREATH OF LIFE
Iq’ symbolizes the wind, the moon, or a crisis. It is the nawal of the element of air and of the moon, of the spirit of human existence. It is a day for the removal of negative energy and illnesses. It is the wind which sweeps clean our house and our body. It also signifies a hurricane, cleansing, purification, breath, and sexual obsession. Upon this day we ask for the strength, the vitality, and the commitment to carry on in our chosen work. This is a day for the removal of negative energy and illnesses. In terms of healing, it favors the resolution of psychological problems, especially those which arise from angry emotional states. This is one of the four Year Lords.
Iq’ natives are brimming with cosmic energy. This nawal is the breath of life, the breath of spirit. Their positive qualities include confidence and self-assurance. Some are truly spiritual. They rely on their brains. They are often skilled with math and make excellent investors or stockholders. They are also very good with words. Iq’ natives can tackle difficult topics or arts of all kinds and acquire proficiency in such things. They are among the strongest, toughest, and most resilient of the day-signs. They can navigate through almost any situation. Their powerful energy tends to insure that they will become successful at something. But even though this is the sign of the breath of life, those who are born under Iq’ can blow in all kinds of directions. They can shift from a “breath of life” personality to a “hurricane” personality in minutes When they begin to blow like a hurricane, it is best to stay out of their way. They bluster more than any other day-sign. Iq’ is also the word for a lunar cycle in K’iche’, and Iq’ natives have a special connection with the moon. They should become aware of how their energy and their personality changes with the moon.
Animal Totem: Hummingbird
AQ’AB’AL
(AKBAL)
DAWN
Aq’ab’al symbolizes awakening, dawn, marriage, light and enchantment. It is the nawal of clarity or light, the day to ask for the occurrence of the light in all things. It is especially a day of marriage, love and romance. This day symbolizes both darkness and dawn; hence it is a day of new beginnings. Upon this day, we express our intention always to think and act with perfect clarity. Needless to say, it is also one of the most favorable days for love and marriage (though B’atz’ is also very good, especially for the actual marriage ceremony). An Aq’ab’al day can also be quite favorable for finding a job.
Natives of Aq’ab’al have a feminine or androgynous energy regardless of their own gender. They frequently appear eternally youthful and seem never to age. Their magical and highly attractive appearance is matched by an equally charming personality. Aq’ab’al people are very eloquent, and sometimes very wise. They are pleasant, popular, and enjoy being helpful to others. They are typically very optimistic and cheerful. Their intellectual smarts are matched by a strong dose of realism and common sense. At times they can be intensely private, even secretive. Other people may find their moods confusing. They often have their own “power times,” and these are the “in between” times of dawn or dusk. At their worst, they can be slippery characters for whom the boundaries of truth and falsehood are muddy and unclear. Since this is the day-sign of love and romance par excellence, these folks are very romantic and relationship-oriented. They often have difficulty finding a partner because they are such extremists in love. The downside of their romanticism is unbridled passion. They are not always appreciated in their own place of origin, and thus can often be found traveling widely. They make excellent writers.
Animal Totem: Bat
K’AT
(KAN)
THE NET
K’at symbolizes a net, the growth and increase of future generations, new offspring, new crops, and the fire of the hearth. It is the nawal of prisons both visible and invisible. Upon this day, we express our intention always to have understanding. It is a favorable day upon which to pray for abundance. It is also a day upon which healing ceremonies and practices are sometimes performed, especially if the necessary healing is psychological in nature. This is a day to ask for the untangling of complex matters.
The natives of K’at love to fight for a cause; at times they can be truly noble in spirit. They care deeply about liberating other people from difficulties and entanglements. There is frequently more than just a touch of bohemian eccentricity about them, for they follow the beat of a different drummer and are born non-conformists. Despite their non-conformist tendencies, they are usually quite orderly and well organized. They are very sensual and have trouble curbing their instincts. This includes money as well as love. They are highly sensitive and can easily fall victim to nervous troubles and anxieties of various kinds. The solution to their jittery nerves involves finding the right partner, someone who can keep them always feeling safe. Their sensuality tends to make them highly attractive to others. They can be nervous, irascible, materialistic, and arrogant. At worst, they can be greedy, stingy, or shallow. They bring in a great deal of karma from past lives and will need to stay high-minded in order to “burn it away” and clear the soul. K’at is a better day for women than for men. These people make excellent doctors, healers, midwives, herbalists and so on. Many are skilled gardeners.
Animal Totem: Lizard
KAN
(CHICCHAN)
FEATHERED SERPENT
Kan symbolizes the Feathered Serpent, sexuality, work, power, law and justice. It is the nawal of the creation of man and woman, also of education and training. It is the regent of the sky and ruler of time; it is transcendence and the transformation of time. Upon this day we assert that vitality, clarity and understanding shall be made manifest in our lives. Because this day-sign has a connection with the “lightning in the body” which is called koyopa, it is also a day upon which one may build both physical and spiritual strength. As the nawal of the creation of man and woman, it is a favorable day for sexual matters as well.
Kan natives possess abundant energy and are very active, though they are also easily distracted. They are honest and sincere and often become regarded as authority figures. They like to read and are good with computers. Though they often seem very reserved and unable to express themselves, they are usually lucky in love. Kan people possess a very powerful and intense sexual energy, and many will be drawn to them because of this energy. Their powerful connection with the koyopa power of Feathered Serpent leads them to investigate the mysteries of the universe; Kan is the archetype of the “sexy scientist.” Those who awaken this primal inner energy can use it to become skilled healers. At worst, Kan people can be conservative, bossy, and can lord it over other people to the point of oppression, often without even realizing it. Their desire for perfection and total knowledge tends to make them somewhat obsessive. They like to test people and may be addicted to comfort. Their surplus of cosmic energy usually keeps them extremely healthy and vital. All are fierce but most are good. They’re just very intense.
Animal Totem: Serpent
KAME
(CIMI)
DEATH AND REBIRTH
Kame symbolizes death, the lord of the darkness, fortitude, humility and obedience. Death is not evil, and grammatically, kame also signifies the present tense and by extension “the eternal now.” Upon this day we pray that we and those dear to us have long life. There is a special connection to the world of the ancestors on this day; communication with other worlds is possible. This day is also favorable for healing and for the protection of travelers. This day has much feminine energy and is a good day upon which to resolve marital conflict.
Natives of Kame are often extremely psychic. They can be skilled forecasters or diviners, though they need to overcome a certain amount of self-absorption and learn to serve others in order to reach full manifestation of their talents. This is one of the signs that have a very feminine or androgynous appearance regardless of gender. They are clever and sociable but may sometimes seem a bit fragile. They are great travelers and many are destined to wander the world. They are lucky in love. They are humble, obedient, kind, generous, and they can be very strong when facing adverse circumstances. They are charismatic but cautious. They are good-natured and much appreciated by women. At worst they can be vindictive. Sometimes they are impractical, full of illusions, and emotionally weak, scorned by others because of their laziness. This rejection can cause them some emotional suffering. Their lives are intense and full of many dramatic events because they bear the burden of much past-life karma. Nevertheless, they almost always land on their feet and seem to be under divine protection, although one of their life’s lessons is not to take their luck for granted and always to be thankful for their good fortune.
Animal Totem: Owl
KEJ
(MANIK)
THE PILLARS OF THE UNIVERSE
Kej symbolizes the deer, and is the nawal of all kinds of four-footed animals. It is also the nawal of the Mayan religion and of the rainforest. This is the day of the aj q’ijab or Mayan priests. It is a day of power, authority, hierarchy, force, and the four cardinal points. Kej is the nawal of the four corners of the earth, and it is sometimes said to have an association with the planet Saturn. Upon this day, we pray for harmony among one and all. This extends to the natural world around us as well as to other human beings; one gains great power and energy if one is able to spend this day in nature or in the wilderness. This is one of the four Year Lords.
The natives of Kej have a strong masculine energy regardless of their own gender. They are strong and brave, but often very refined at the same time. The men make excellent leaders, bosses, and authority figures; they may also be gifted as spiritual guides and teachers. Kej men can be bossy and domineering but sometimes hide their true strength and energy beneath a passive demeanor. Both women and men are true romantics and are often bohemians, frequently with an artistic flair or talent. They have a tendency to become involved in very intense but obsessive relationships. Kej women are agile and strong; they are able to assume great responsibilities and occupy important positions. They are affectionate and appreciative, but must often make sacrifices to achieve their goals. They tend to dominate their husbands; they often seek fame, and unless they are careful to remain in balance, they too can become overbearing and domineering. In order to maintain their equanimity, Kej people need to be in nature, for they are the archetypal guardians of the wild.
Animal Totem: Deer
Q’ANIL
(LAMAT)
THE REGENERATION OF THE EARTH
Q’anil symbolizes seed, corn, pride, harvest, and food. It is the nawal of all kinds of animal and vegetable seeds. It is the day of fertility and harvests, abundance, and prosperity; this day is auspicious for planting in the garden or initiating any business negotiation. Q’anil signifies the four colors of corn – red, black, white and yellow. This is a wonderful day for farmers or simple planter box gardeners, for upon this day we ask that the world may be made to blossom and be made fertile. We may plant ideas and projects as well as flowers; any relationship or business venture which begins on a Q’anil day will usually turn out favorably. This day-sign is also associated with the planet Venus.
Q’anil people are intuitive, kind, generous, and good-natured. They do well when they focus on acting as caretakers for their community, whether in a material or spiritual sense. Most of them have very gentle dispositions; they are adaptable, adjustable, and they assimilate easily. They are not very adventurous and don’t like to take risks. Despite this desire for serenity, many of them will experience numerous ups and downs in life; in time some of them will acquire wisdom because of their experiences. They have access to the deep inner knowledge of things as long as they remain calm and balanced through contact with the beauties of nature and authentic wisdom traditions. They need tranquility and security, and may fall victim to their dark side if this is lacking in their lives. At worst they can be egotistical and neurotic, as well as restless and promiscuous. They may become victims of passion and thus generate conflict and sow discord. Their biggest potential difficulties in life come from illness and substance abuse. Q’anil people must learn to believe in themselves while at the same time not taking it all too seriously. Their inner access to the world’s wisdom makes them great historians.
Animal Totem: Rabbit
TOJ
(MULUC)
OFFERING
Toj symbolizes spiritual offerings, liberty, equilibrium, payment, a fine, or a debt. This day is related to two elements, being the nawal of Water in its manifestation of rain, and also of the Sacred Fire in the Mayan Fire Ceremony Upon this day we humbly acknowledge our karmic debts and assert our intention to “pay it all back” by placing our lives in harmony. This is the day to make atonement for all disequilibrium and be thankful for all that is in balance.
Natives of Toj have warm and magnetic personalities; they are also extremely sensitive. This is the sign of “karmic payback.” These people often have health issues as well as money issues, due to the fact that they are born with such a heavy load of karma. With effort, they can clear away their karmic debts in this very lifetime. They need to be kind to others, and devote themselves to service. They have natural protection from the Divine, as long as they remember to pay back all karmic debts and help others to do the same. They may sometimes have to deal with ill health, but this is a clear signal that they need to focus on clearing away karma. They are attached to their homes. They have passionate relationships; they are gifted in math and economics and make excellent bankers, especially those dealing with loans; they also make good helpers and intermediaries. They can be ill-tempered and vain, and occasionally monopolistic; sometimes they seek attention and are inclined to get angry when people don’t acknowledge every little thing they do. They are freedom lovers and often very good with animals. They have the potential to become at peace with everything around them.
Animal Totem: Puma (cougar)
TZ’I
(OC)
LAW AND SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY
Tz’i symbolizes a dog, the police, vengeance, or a magistrate; also accuracy and precision; justice, and legality. This day is another nawal of sexuality (like Kan, although much more “basic”). On this day we pray that justice made be done to all people. It is a good day to address any legal issues of our own, as well as correcting the difficulties which may have arisen in our lives due to an excess of the passions.
Tz’i people are faithful and kind, strong and long-suffering. They are frequently talented with communication and writing. They are strong believers in social justice, but sometimes they want to make their own laws, and care little about others so long as they get what they want. This is a sign of judges and administrators, of lawyers and politicians. Tz’i natives are hard workers and make good scientists, researchers and investigators; they are also gifted and skilled in all areas of law and legal writing. They make excellent guardians and protectors; they command respect, authority and leadership. Tz’i people are well known as pleasure seekers. They can be very passionate and are known for their sensuality. They have many relationships, but often tend to choose to live alone in their mature years. They are also prone to substance abuse problems. They can be manipulative and like to gossip. They may be overly ambitious, overly strict and authoritarian at home and with others; they can become corrupt officials, especially when it comes to accepting bribes (in Spanish, a bribe is a mordida or “bite,”like the bite of a dog). If they can establish a clear and honest sense of direction, they may become genuine representatives of spiritual authority.
Animal Totems: Dog, raccoon
