Achuguayo facts for kids

Achuguayo was an important god in the ancient religion of the Guanches, who were the first people to live on the island of Tenerife. He was known as the god of the Moon. Achuguayo was seen as the opposite, or "duality," of Magec, who was the god of the Sun.

People also called Achuguayo the "Father of Time." This is because he was believed to be in charge of keeping track of time and making sure everything happened when it was supposed to.

Who Were the Guanches?

The Guanches were the native people of the Canary Islands, especially Tenerife, before the Spanish arrived. They had their own unique culture, language, and religion. Their beliefs often focused on nature, including the sun, moon, mountains, and spirits.

Beliefs About the Moon

For the Guanches, the Moon was a very important part of their daily lives and spiritual beliefs. It controlled the tides and lit up the night, which was crucial for people living close to nature. Achuguayo, as the Moon god, played a big role in their understanding of the world and the passage of time.

Achuguayo and Magec: A Balance of Power

The idea of Achuguayo being the "duality" of Magec (the Sun god) shows how the Guanches saw balance in the universe. The Sun brought light and warmth during the day, while the Moon brought light and coolness at night. Together, they represented the complete cycle of day and night, light and dark, and the rhythm of life. This balance was a key part of their spiritual understanding.

The "Father of Time" Concept

Calling Achuguayo the "Father of Time" highlights his role in regulating the natural cycles. The phases of the Moon (new moon, half moon, full moon) were used to mark the passage of days and months. This made the Moon god essential for farming, festivals, and understanding the seasons. He was like a cosmic clock for the Guanche people.

See also

In Spanish: Achuguayo para niños