Alux

An alux (Mayan: , plural: ''aluxo'ob'' ) is a type of sprite or spirit in the mythological tradition of certain Maya peoples from the Yucatán Peninsula, Belize and Guatemala, also called Chanekeh or Chaneque by the Nahuatl people. Aluxo'ob are conceived of as being small, only about knee-high, and in appearance resembling miniature traditionally dressed Maya people. Tradition holds that aluxob are generally invisible but are able to assume physical form for purposes of communicating with and frightening humans as well as to congregate. They are generally associated with natural features such as forests, caves, stones, and fields but can also be enticed to move somewhere through offerings. These associations are because aluxo’ob were created with mud, leaves, and divine breath by the ancient Mayan gods. Their description and mythological role are somewhat reminiscent of other sprite-like mythical entities in a number of other cultural traditions (such as the leprechaun or Brownie ), as the tricks they play are similar.

Some Maya believe that the Aluxo'ob are called into being when a farmer builds a little house on his property, most often in a maize field (milpa). For seven years, the alux will help the corn grow, summon rain and patrol the fields at night, whistling to scare off predators or crop thieves. At the end of seven years, the farmer must close the windows and doors of the little house, sealing the alux inside. If this is not done, the alux will run wild and start playing tricks on people.