which was kept perpetually burning on the summit of the pyramid was the
graphic and appropriate image of the central light of heaven that most
naturally suggested itself to the native mind. Its origin was attributed
to supernatural agency and it was under the special care of the
priesthood. A deeply symbolical meaning was obviously attached to the
ceremonial kindling of the sacred fire by means of the reed fire-drill
which was held perpendicularly and inserted into a horizontally-placed
piece of dry wood. A noteworthy resemblance to a tau-shaped figure was
thus formed, which is interesting in connection with the fact that the
ceremony of kindling the sacred fire was undoubtedly regarded by the
ancient Mexicans as emblematical of the productive and life-giving union
of the dual principles of nature. The acatl or reedstalk, inserted into
the vase-like symbol of the earth, such as is carved on the centre of the
upper edge of the calendar-stone, is but another hieratic form of the same
symbolism.
The annual re-distribution of the sacred fire to the entire population, a
fresh gift from heaven obtained by the mediation of the high-priest, was
particularly impressive and emphasized the idea of all fire and light and
life proceeding from a common centre.
It is noticeable that the reed or acatl is also intimately associated with
the east, the masculine or life-giving region. The Maya name for
tortoise=ac, is a curious homonym of the Nahuatl word ac-atl.