The Deer-Maize-Peyote Symbol Complex among the Huichol Indians of Mexico

Abstract

The interpretation is offered that fusion of Deer, Maize, and Peyote, particularly as achieved during Peyote Hunt resolves a series of contradictions in Huichol life-societal, historical, and ideological. It is suggested that Peyote Hunt represents a historical and mystical return to Huichol homeland and way of life, and a symbolic re-creation of original times before present separation occurred between man, gods, plants, and animals; between life and death, between natural and supernatural; and between sexes. On Peyote Hunt, men become gods and at most dramatic moment of event, when first peyote is slain and eaten, important social distinctions of age, sex, ritual status, regional differences and family afiliations, are eliminated. A state of unity and continuity, which epitomizes Huichol view of the good, is reached and this continuity is between man, nature, society, and supe-rnatural. The retrieval of this unity is seen as perhaps most important function of ceremony, and of entire symbol complex.