Significance of Hunab Ku In Symbolism
The Hunab Ku is an ancient symbol filled with mystery due to its mixed ties. Some associate it with the Mayans, others consider it to have Aztec roots, and others still believe in the strength of its Christian ties. The earliest reference to this term that we know about appeared in the Diccionario de Motul, where “Hunab Ku” translates to several things: Sole God, Only God, etc.
According to this text, there was only a single great god in the eyes of the people of Yucatan. However, he had no distinct form, as he was not a being of simple matter. This god was considered to be the true source of all energy.
The term “Hunab Ku” symbolism also appears in the Book of Chilam Balam of Chumayel, which was written after the Spanish Conquest. It has not been found in any pre-Conquest inscriptions in Mayan writing.
However, it is still believed to be an ancient Mayan symbol. Sylvanus Morley even asserts that Hunab Ku was a name for the Mayan high god in his classic book, The Ancient Maya. Another scholar, Jose Arguelles, has claimed that this term represents the principle that life is bigger than our mere surroundings. It reaches beyond us and even further beyond the cosmos.
Hunab Ku Symbol
The Hunab Ku is a deity that the Mayan people greatly appreciated. It is formless; therefore, represented by a circular motif that resembles the yin-yang sign whose recognition is mostly in Asia.
Hunab Ku deity is depicted as a black-and-white galaxy. Because of its appearance, many people refer to it as the Galactic Butterfly. This sign is also associated with symbols and concepts of Freemasonry, the Masonic Compass and Square, and the idea of a Great Architect/ Creator of the Universe. This sign is associated with the idea of the cycles of life and the nature of human beings.
Hunab Ku – Symbolic Meaning
We know for sure that the Hunab Ku symbol can be found illustrated in the original Mayan calendar system. As such, we can interpret the symbol as about the cycles that occur in nature and human lives. It depicts the oneness, order, and balance that exists within the universe and reminds believers that God is an omnipresent force with infinite power.
This god facilitates the movement of energy throughout life, but we also have responsibilities as inhabitants of the Earth to take care of her. The most common theme amongst all of nature is that balance is crucial. This is also the major symbolism that is associated with the Hunab Ku, regardless of what specific religion anyone wishes to follow. The Hunab Ku can be equated with the yin and yang symbol found in Asian traditions.
Concept Of Balance With This Symbol
The concept of balance is a broad one when it comes to the Hunab Ku meaning. However, it rightly applies to nearly every aspect of our lives. The world generally experiences a balance every year, every season, and every day between light and dark, day and night. This speaks directly to the connection, relationship, and understanding between the sun and the moon. They compromise with one another and do not feel the need to outshine the other.
Each is given its due time and consideration, as are the symbols and animals associated with them. Our families manage the balance between male and female, paternal and maternal energies, and parenting strategies.
Likewise, the male and female energies of the world (whether in people or animals) also maintain a balance, completing their specific roles and complementing each other’s features.
Balance In Nature
Less popular but equally common examples of the inevitable balance in nature include those of good and evil and life and death. Although they might not be glamorous, they are real and true. Each of these things only contributes to the cycles that make life beautiful.
Symbols gain a plethora of meanings over time. Sometimes, they even gain attachments that are neither fitting nor supported. We cannot know every detail of a symbol’s pre-written history, but this is okay.
You are given jumping-off points for your explanation of the symbol, which is much more useful and appropriate for your own needs anyway. When any aspect of a symbol speaks to you listen to it. There are no wrong ideas if they are your own.