¿Cuál era la idea de felicidad de los aztecas y qué podemos aprender de ella?

Key Concepts

• Tlamatinime (Aztec philosophers)
• Neliliztli (Arraigo, truth, goodness, rootedness)
• Huehuetlatolli (Sayings of the wise elders)
• Teotl (Deity representing nature)
• Community-centric ethics vs. Individual-centric ethics
• "Resbaladiza, escurridiza es la tierra" (Slippery is the earth)

Aztec Wisdom: A Good Life Beyond Happiness

Introduction

The video challenges the common belief that happiness is the ultimate goal of a good life, presenting the Aztec perspective, as understood through the writings of Spanish priests and missionaries. It poses a hypothetical scenario: immortality and pleasure at the cost of severing ties with loved ones, to illustrate that people value things beyond happiness.

Historical Context and Sources

The Aztec empire flourished in central and southern Mexico between the 15th and early 16th centuries. While many pre-colonial books were destroyed by the Spanish, knowledge of Aztec thought is preserved in texts recorded by Catholic priests like Fray Andrés de Olmos, Fray Gerónimo de Mendieta, Bartolomé de las Casas, and most notably, Bernardino de Sahagún, whose Códice Florentino contains the Huehuetlatolli, sayings of wise elders.

Community-Centric Ethics vs. Individual-Centric Ethics

Unlike philosophies like Platonism, Stoicism (Marco Aurelio), and to some extent Buddhism, which prioritize individual virtue and self-mastery, the Aztec philosophy, as interpreted by the video, emphasizes the importance of community and relationships. The tlamatinime believed in starting with the environment and relationships before focusing on the individual's body and mind. The Aztec approach centers on the idea that no one is perfect and that mutual support is essential for progress.

The Concept of "Neliliztli"

The video introduces the concept of Neliliztli, which translates to "arraigo" (rootedness), "verdad" (truth), and "bondad" (goodness). This concept represents a deeper, more enduring sense of purpose and connection than fleeting happiness. The Aztecs believed that this rootedness, particularly within their community, provided a stronger foundation for navigating life's inevitable challenges.

"Resbaladiza, escurridiza es la tierra"

The Aztec proverb "resbaladiza, escurridiza es la tierra" (slippery is the earth) encapsulates the idea that everyone makes mistakes and experiences setbacks. The Códice Florentino states that one can be living a good life and then fall into misfortune, as if slipping in the mud. Therefore, aspiring to a perfect, error-free life is unrealistic.

How to Live a Good Life According to the Aztecs

The video outlines key elements of the Aztec approach to living a good life:

1. Caring for the Body: Daily exercise was important. The video mentions recovered figures depicting postures similar to yoga, including the lotus position.
2. Caring for the Psyche: Attention was given to the psiquis, encompassing both the mind and emotions.
3. Community Support: Strong family ties, friendships, neighborly relations, and seeking advice from experienced individuals were crucial. This social circle provides support after inevitable falls.
4. Connection to Teotl: Rootedness in Teotl, a deity representing nature, was essential.

Humility

The philosophy of accepting life's inevitable stumbles implies the virtue of humility, which the video suggests is often lacking in modern society.

Synthesis/Conclusion

The video concludes that the Aztecs sought to harmonize the body, mind, and social purpose with a sense of awe and connection to nature. The main takeaway is that a good life, according to Aztec wisdom, is not about pursuing fleeting happiness but about cultivating rootedness (Neliliztli) within a supportive community, accepting imperfections, and connecting with nature (Teotl). This approach emphasizes resilience and purpose over the pursuit of constant happiness.