Cocoa bean worshipped by the Mayans and Aztecs

In ancient Latin America, chocolate was worshipped. Both the Mayan and Aztec people had gods that they believed were responsible for bringing chocolate to the earth. Chocolate is often referred to as the "food of the gods". The phrase may have its roots in the Mayan religion.

The two cultures, Mayan and Aztec consumed chocolate as a drink, which was popular among nobility.

Mayans worshipping the cocoa bean as an idol closely linked to the merchant god Ek Chuah, and vases filled with cocoa beans were a common offering to the gods at the funerals of leading men in Mayan history.

According to Aztec mythology, the cacao tree was brought down from heaven by a god named Quetzacoatl. So, the drink made from its beans was believed to impart wisdom and power.

The Olmecs, who lived in what is now Southern Central America from around 1200 BC, are believed to be the first tribe to actually farm the cocoa tree. They also believed the seeds of the plant held an almost mythical quality, guaranteeing health and power.

The Olmecs were succeeded by the Mayans, who began cultivating cocoa trees on organized plantations in the lowlands of South Yucatan from around 600 AD.

It was believed that the cocoa bean had magical powers, and it was used during major life events like births, marriages and deaths.
Cocoa bean worshipped by the Mayans and Aztecs