Who held the primary authority in the Mayan religion?

In Mayan society, the priest held primary authority in religious matters, playing a crucial role in the spiritual and ceremonial life of the community. The priests were responsible for interpreting the will of the gods, conducting rituals, and ensuring that the necessary offerings and ceremonies were performed to maintain harmony between the gods and the people. They were educated and trained in the complexities of the religious frameworks and calendar systems, which were deeply intertwined with agricultural cycles and community events.

The priestly class not only guided spiritual practices but also played significant roles in advising rulers and the elite on governance matters based on divine interpretation. While kings wielded political power and were often seen as intermediaries between the gods and the people, they relied heavily on priests to ensure that their rule was legitimate in the eyes of the divine. Here, the priests were considered vital to maintaining the culture and religious traditions that underpinned Mayan civilization.