IIxkuiduihin

IIxkuiduihin is a lesser-known deity in the pantheon of the ancient Mesoamerican civilization of the Zapotecs, primarily worshipped in the region of Oaxaca, Mexico. The name "IIxkuiduihin" translates to "the one who makes the heart beat," reflecting the deity's association with life, vitality, and the human heart. IIxkuiduihin is often depicted in Zapotec art and iconography as a figure with a heart-shaped emblem on their chest, symbolizing their role as the guardian of the heart and the source of life.

The cult of IIxkuiduihin is closely linked to the Zapotec calendar and the agricultural cycle. The deity is believed to have been born on the first day of the Zapotec calendar, marking the beginning of the new year and the renewal of life. IIxkuiduihin is also associated with the heart of the earth, representing the connection between the physical world and the spiritual realm. This duality is reflected in the Zapotec belief that the heart of the earth is the source of life and the heart of the individual is the gateway to the spiritual world.

IIxkuiduihin is often invoked in rituals and ceremonies to seek healing, protection, and guidance. The deity is believed to have the power to heal the heart and restore balance to the body, mind, and spirit. In times of illness or crisis, the Zapotecs would offer prayers and sacrifices to IIxkuiduihin, seeking their intervention and protection.

The cult of IIxkuiduihin has had a significant impact on Zapotec culture and society, shaping their beliefs, practices, and worldview. The deity's association with the heart and the agricultural cycle has made them an essential figure in Zapotec mythology and a vital part of their cultural heritage. Today, the cult of IIxkuiduihin continues to be practiced by some Zapotec communities, and their legacy lives on in the art, music, and traditions of the Zapotec people.