Several pre-Columbian civilizations worshipped animals and believed they were descendants of jaguars.

Yes, it is true that in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, several civilizations revered animals, with the jaguar being one of the most prominent symbols of power and divinity. One of the most notable civilizations that had the jaguar as a central figure in their mythology and religious practices were the Olmecs, who lived in what is now South Mexico. The jaguar was associated with shamanism, fertility, and the underworld. It was not uncommon for shamans to be depicted transforming into a jaguar, or for rulers to associate themselves with jaguars to demonstrate their power and divine right to rule.

In some cultures, like the Maya civilization, the jaguar god, often referred to as the "Jaguar God of the Underworld," was a significant deity associated with night, the underworld, and war. Maya rulers often wore jaguar pelts, and the image of the jaguar was used in royal iconography, signaling the ruler's might, fierceness, and their associated with this powerful animal.

The belief that they were descendants of jaguars is part of the larger Mesoamerican mythology complex. Such beliefs served to structure their social systems and to legitimize their rulers' authority. In these cultures, being "descended" from an animal, especially a powerful one like the jaguar, would grant a supernatural and almost divine aura to a lineage, therefore justifying their position of power.

Extra: Understanding the cultural context of animal worship in pre-Columbian civilizations requires knowing the importance of animals in these societies. Animals were not merely respected for their physical attributes and abilities, but they were also seen as part of the larger connection between the natural and supernatural world.

Many pre-Columbian civilizations had animistic beliefs, which is the perception that non-human entities like animals, plants, and even inanimate objects, have a spiritual essence. Animals such as jaguars, eagles, serpents, and others were often seen as manifestations or messengers of the gods, and incorporating their images or traits played an important role in religious ceremonies and iconography.

In such societies, the natural world was imbued with sacredness, and each element within it was part of a holistic and interconnected system. The reverence for animals like jaguars was also connected to their observable characteristics. The jaguar, being a top predator, represented strength, stealth, and dominion over its domain, which are qualities that leaders of these societies would want to emulate or associate themselves with.

The integration of animal motifs into cultural practices can be seen in the art, architecture, and even the layout of the cities of these civilizations. The design of temples, the narratives depicted in their frescoes, and the symbolism in their rituals all reflect this deep connection between animal worship and their wider worldview. Understanding this helps us see these civilizations as complex societies with intricate belief systems and a rich spiritual life that guided much of their existence.