The Influence of Creation Myths and Ancestors of Incan Religious Life

Abstract

Center of Social Science Research Student Paper Award Winners (2021), (Long Paper Winner). The Incan religion played a critical role in daily life throughout the empire. Religious ideology was formed based on the importance of ancestors and Gods in creation myths. Societal prosperity, good weather, and fertile lands depended on the happiness of the ancestors and the Gods. In order to develop a positive relationship with these sacred figures, the Inca people spent their lives following a strict calendar schedule of sacrificial burials, celebrations, and customs. Each event focused on becoming closer to the mountains, worshipping ancestral mummies, and children's development. Parades took place where mummies were carried in the streets. The Inti Raymi Festival took place to honor the Sun God, corn was harvested to give thanks for fertility, and human sacrifices were made on mountains from where the Inca founders originated. Spirits, ancestors, God’s, the living landscape and religious rituals all played a vital role in the Incan religion and everyday life because of their importance in state and cosmic origin myths.