Cart is empty The Dreamspell Calendar vs. the Authentic Maya Calendar
The Dreamspell Calendar, also known as the Thirteen Moon calendar, has gained attention and followers worldwide. Developed by José Argüelles and his wife Lloydine in the early 1990s, this calendar system presented itself as a modern interpretation of the ancient Mayan calendar. However, it has faced persistent controversy and scrutiny due to its significant departure from the authentic sacred 260-day calendar in use by the Maya for 3000 years. In this article, we will delve into the key differences between the Dreamspell Calendar and the genuine Maya calendar, shedding light on the debates surrounding its authenticity.
The Dreamspell Calendar: A Modern Interpretation
The Dreamspell Calendar emerged in the wake of the Harmonic Convergence of 1987, an event that marked the beginning of a new spiritual era for many. José Argüelles, a prominent figure in the New Age movement, played a central role in promoting this calendar system. He and his wife, Lloydine, introduced the Dreamspell kit in 1990, presenting it as a playful and artistic way for people to learn and engage with a calendar that was portrayed as Mayan in nature.
The Dreamspell calendar incorporated the same symbols as the genuine Mayan calendar, making it visually appealing and intriguing to those seeking a deeper connection with ancient wisdom. This presentation, coupled with New Age philosophy, attracted followers and leaders of the Dreamspell movement in various countries during the early 1990s.
Controversies Surrounding the Dreamspell Calendar
While the Dreamspell Calendar utilized Mayan symbols and imagery, it departed significantly from the authentic Maya calendar in several crucial aspects. One of the primary points of contention was its adherence to the Gregorian calendar, which includes a leap day on February 29 every four years. This alignment with the Christian-based Gregorian calendar raised questions about its legitimacy as a true Mayan calendar.
Scholars and critics pointed out that the Maya never had a “day out of time,” a central concept in the Dreamspell calendar. This discrepancy between the two calendars sparked debates about the Dreamspell’s authenticity. Moreover, the ancient Maya did not have a set New Year’s day at July 26th as the Dreamspell, but the beginning date of the yearly calendar would change over time.
The Hidden Agenda: Ego and Self-Importance
One of the most perplexing aspects of the Dreamspell calendar’s development is the alleged hidden agenda behind its creation. Critics have argued that José Argüelles and Lloydine designed the calendar to align with their own birthdays, granting themselves special calendrical numbers and symbols. This alignment suggested an element of ego and self-importance within the calendar’s framework.
José Argüelles himself made statements implying that he had designed the calendar to bestow powerful master numbers upon himself and his wife, elevating them to a unique status within the movement. This perceived self-designation as significant figures within the calendar system led to accusations of a hidden agenda. It seems that unbeknownst to its followers they were led into worshipping the birthdays of the founders of this calendar system and so give their energy away to them.
The True Mayan Calendar: A 260-Day Tzolk’in
In contrast to the Dreamspell Calendar, the authentic Maya calendar is a sacred 260-day Tzolk’in. This ancient calendar was a fundamental part of Mayan culture and spirituality. It revolved around a combination of 20 day-signs (such as Alligator, Wind, or Serpent) and 13 numbers, creating a cyclical pattern that repeated every 260 days without any interruptions or lost days in time. Hence, the genuine Maya calendar did not include a leap day like the Dreamspell calendar did, and it did not deviate from its traditional structure to accommodate external influences. It was deeply rooted in Mayan cosmology, serving as a tool for divination, timekeeping, and spiritual guidance.
Conclusion: The Dreamspell Calendar’s Authenticity Questioned
The Dreamspell Calendar, despite its visual resemblance to the genuine Mayan calendar, has faced persistent questions about its authenticity. Its alignment with the Gregorian calendar, the inclusion of a “day out of time,” and the alleged hidden agenda behind its creation have all contributed to an ongoing debate.
While the Dreamspell calendar has garnered a following and contributed to the New Age movement, it remains distinct from the sacred 260-day Tzolk’in used by the Maya for centuries. The controversy surrounding its authenticity highlights the importance of preserving and respecting indigenous cultural traditions and the need for transparency in spiritual practices that draw inspiration from ancient wisdom.