How did the Mayans perceive the concept of time?

The concept of time for the Mayans was understood as circular and cyclical. This perception is rooted in their agricultural practices and their cosmological beliefs, where natural cycles—such as the seasons, the movements of celestial bodies, and agricultural growth—were key to their understanding of time. They tracked time using various calendars, notably the Tzolk'in (a 260-day ritual calendar) and the Haab' (a 365-day solar calendar), reflecting their belief in periodicity and the recurrence of certain events.

The Mayan calendar systems encapsulated the idea that time is not just a linear progression but rather a repeating cycle where events recur in a meaningful context. They viewed time as a continuum that connected past, present, and future, often linked with their religious and agricultural activities. This cyclical understanding influenced their rituals and societal organization, demonstrating their deep connection to the natural world and belief in the regeneration of life.

In contrast, a linear and fixed perception suggests an unchanging progression from beginning to end, which does not align with Mayan cosmology. The notion of time being entirely irrelevant overlooks the extensive calendrical systems they developed and their significance in daily and ceremonial life. Lastly, viewing time as strictly mechanical and scientific does not accurately reflect