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Abstract:
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This dissertation presents the results of an ethnoarchaeological study of Kaqchikel Maya ceremonies in the southwestern highlands of Guatemala . The Maya view the Earth as being animate and sacred . Within this earthscape exist places that are especially alive and powerful . These are sacred earthmarks . Ceremonies are performed at these locations to communicate with this animate world as well as provide the maintenance necessary to keep the relationship between the natural and supernatural in balance . These special places can be various geographic locations including caves , rockshelters , mountain tops , boulders , cliffs , rivers , and archaeological sites . Inquiries into Maya cosmology show that the earth is of central importance and questions assumptions concerning the multi level worldview of sky , earth , and underworld . Furthermore , this work challenges the long tradition among Maya researchers of associating caves with the underworld . Data for this dissertation was gathered over eight seasons of fieldwork that included visiting over 65 sites . At each site a ceremony was performed by a ritual specialist ; the author directly participated in the majority of these ceremonies . Theoretically , the data and insights are used as a basis for constructing ethnographic models used as analogs in the interpretation and reconstruction of pre -contact ritual contexts , especially those found in caves . This research found that four phases were observed as part of the ceremonial process . These phases include a consultation phase , a preparation phase , a communication phase , and a termination phase . Of the various materials utilized many had pre -contact antecedents . Discussions are included on the use of brooms , sticks or staffs , and torches by the pre -contact and contemporary Maya . The study further documented that sacred sites are dynamic , constantly changing spaces often modified in the process of use . Altars are assembled , disassembled , and /or relocated . Sweeping , or altar activation , affects the depositional nature of these sites . Offerings are constructed at these sites utilizing a variety of materials to "feed" the ancestors and spiritual guardians found at these sacred portals . Numerous materials are used in a ceremonial offering for consumption . Materials used include : colored candles , numerous types of resin -based incense , sugar , chocolate , cigars , breads , herbs , flowers , perfumed liquids , and liquor . |