8 Manik (October 25)

8 Manik (October 25): This is one of the “great days” of the tzolk’in, ranking in importance along with 8 Chuen. It is one of the days upon which Daykeepers are initiated into their spiritual vocation. Upon this day, we pray for harmony among one and all. This extends to the natural world around us as well as to other human beings; one gains great power and energy if one is able to spend this day in nature or in the wilderness. In the ancient system, Manik was associated with the western direction, but modern Daykeepers more often than not regard it as a sign of the East. Much like Navajo and Pueblo peoples in the American Southwest, the highland Maya typically perceive themselves as living between four sacred mountains, which are often visited for spiritual reasons. On 8 Manik, Daykeepers often make a pilgrimage to the sacred mountain of the east, wherever it may be in terms of their own community. The east symbolizes your future (including your children). This is the time and place to affirm your commitment to consciously creating your future, as well as giving thanks for your children.