In March of 1994, I was fortunate enough to visit the
Pyramid of Kukulkan at Chich'en Itza, Mexico on the vernal equinox when the sun
projects an undulating pattern of light on the northern stairway for a few
hours in the late afternoon--a pattern caused by the angle of the sun and the
edge of the nine steps that define the pyramid's construction. These triangles
of light link up with the massive stone carvings of snake heads at the base of
the stairs, suggesting a massive serpent snaking down the structure.
According to legend, twice a year when the day and night are
in balance, this pyramid dedicated to Kukulkan (or Quetzalcoatl), the feathered
serpent god, is visited by its namesake. On the equinox Kukulkan returns to
earth to commune with his worshipers, provide blessing for a full harvest and
good health before entering the sacred water, bathing in it, and continuing
through it on his way to the underworld.
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