How were the religion and the government of the Maya connected?
Religion and government were closely connected in the Maya civilization. The ruling elites were believed to have divine status and were responsible for both civic and religious affairs. Kings and queens were seen as intermediaries between the gods and the people, and many important decisions were made with the consultation of priests and diviners.
Moreover, Maya religion was integral to the governance of society. The Mayas believed that the gods controlled all aspects of life, including agriculture, warfare, and the weather. As a result, rulers often sought the favor of the gods by building temples and making offerings of precious goods. This helped to legitimize their rule and reinforce their authority.
Furthermore, the Maya calendar, which was used for both religious and agricultural purposes, played an important role in the governance of society. The calendar was used to determine the timing of religious ceremonies as well as the planting and harvesting seasons.
In summary, religion and government were intertwined in the Maya civilization, with rulers serving as both political leaders and religious figures, and religion playing a central role in the governance of society.