Folklore

The culture of Belize is defined by its rich mixture of Garifuna, Mayan, and Creole descendants, each adding a unique aspect to the overall Belizean culture.

Yum Kaax: The Maize God

Although powerless alone, the Maize god is representative of the staple grain of Mayan agriculture. The god is always shown bearing a headdress of maize and a curved streak on his cheek. The power of the Maize god is determined by the gods of rain and drought.

Obeah

Obeah, often called Obi, is a type of folk magic derived from religious beliefs that is often practiced in the West Indies and Caribbean. It is mostly associated with benign magic - charms, luck, and general mysticism. It is seldom practiced today, and usually only by a very few older shamans who draw spirituality from their practice of the magic and its association with nature.

  Back

Updated: March 18, 2008