Xocoyotzin

Xocoyotzin, also spelled Xocoyotl or Xocoyotzin, is a deity in the Aztec pantheon, often associated with the planet Venus and the morning star. His name translates to "the little dog" or "the little fox," reflecting his small size and the animalistic traits attributed to him. Xocoyotzin is depicted as a small, furry creature with a long tail, often wearing a feathered headdress and carrying a staff. He is considered a trickster god, known for his mischievous and playful nature. Xocoyotzin is also associated with the arts, particularly music and dance, and is believed to inspire creativity and joy. In Aztec mythology, Xocoyotzin is often depicted as a companion to other deities, such as Quetzalcoatl and Tlaloc. His cult center was located in the city of Tlacopan, which was later incorporated into the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan. Despite his small size, Xocoyotzin holds an important place in Aztec mythology and culture, symbolizing the balance between the natural and supernatural worlds.