Jaguar Warrior / Ocelotl

A Jaguar warrior (ocelotl) was an elite soldier from the mexica (aztec) army. Their armor and clothing were distinguish to resemble a jaguar. The symbolism of the jaguar was connected to Tezcatlipoca, god of the night sky, and it was believed that warrior gain its strenght and fierce from that animal when wore that attire.

Being a jaguar warrior could make gain status, it could improve the social status and earn some priviliges. To be a jaguar warrior, the young man have to receive a very early training, and to get the jaguar warrior status it requires a certain number of captured enemies. Capturing enemies alive, was more worthly than killing them, it was believed that way honors the gods, also they were used as human sacrifices.