ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Vision Serpent

Okay kiddo, so the vision serpent is a special creature that is important to the people of the ancient Maya civilization who lived in Central America a long time ago. They believed that this serpent was a symbol of spiritual power and knowledge.

They thought that when they looked at the image of the vision serpent, they could see into the spirit realm and gain insights and wisdom from the gods. That's why they often carved or painted the image of the vision serpent on their temples and other important buildings.

The image of the vision serpent usually shows a long, winding snake with a big head and a wide open mouth. It sometimes has feathers or other fancy decorations, too. The Maya people believed that the vision serpent could fly and was very powerful and wise.

So, in a way, the vision serpent was like a special friend that the Maya people would turn to when they needed guidance, wisdom, or strength. It was an important symbol for their culture and religion.