Editing Hun Hunahpu (section)

== Mythological Role ==

=== Descent into Xibalba ===
In the Popol Vuh:

* Hun Hunahpu and his brother descend into Xibalba (the underworld)
* They are defeated by the Lords of the Underworld
* Hun Hunahpu is killed and his head is placed in a calabash tree

=== Continuation of Life ===
After his death:

* His head (or essence) continues in symbolic form
* His lineage continues through his sons, the Hero Twins ([[Hunahpu and Xbalanque]])
* This establishes the cycle of rebirth and renewal

=== Maize Symbolism ===
Hun Hunahpu is strongly linked to maize:

* His death mirrors planting seeds in the earth
* His rebirth reflects the sprouting of crops
* He embodies agricultural cycles essential to survival