Guatemala's Folk Saints - 9780826329950

This book tells the story of two ancient "folk saints" of Guatemala: San Simon (called Maximon when addressed in native dialect) and the skeletal El Rey Pascual. These powerful icons are both unique in their theology and steeped in mysticism. They reflect a belief system deeply rooted in the ancient Mayan religion of Guatemala and influenced by centuries of superimposed Christianity. Supplicants from all levels of society beg for their assistance, as well as that of their associates: the Ajitz, Judas, Don Pedro, and Gregorio, who can also be found among the pages of this book and on the "mesas" (altars) of "curenderos" (healers), along with their counterpart, Lucifer.
For more than 25 years, author/photographer Jim Pieper, and his wife, Jeanne, have documented Guatemalan "costumbres" (native rituals) involving San Simon and his friends. Their research has been based on personal observation in the field; the work of other scholars (although little has been written on this subject before); and interviews with other observers, including Catholic priests, and native participants. The Mayan priests, healers and other practitioners quoted in this book are not in agreement on every detail. Their information did not come from history books or any other written documentation. Instead, they share stories which have been handed down orally from generation to generation within their family or village. Jim Pieper presents their comments faithfully, with no attempt to prove one particular viewpoint over another. Guatemala's Folk Saints gives a first hand glimpse of how oral traditions develop, and helps the reader begin to understand and appreciate both the power and vitality of mythology.