The Mono Araña, also known as the Spider Monkey, is a relative of the Howler Monkey in various regions of México. According to Mayan legend, during the creation of the natural world, the gods fashioned wooden beings without souls. Incapable of worshiping their creators, these creatures faced the wrath of the gods, who sought to eliminate them by turning nature against them. Despite the divine plan, a resilient few survived by seeking refuge in the forests, where they evolved into monkeys.
Beyond its role as a symbol of survival, this primate becomes a crucial figure in the natural order, particularly as a provider of cocoa, the sacred seed. The interdependence between Spider Monkeys and cocoa plants reflects a harmonious relationship where both entities benefit. The cocoa plant extends its sweet and delectable fruits to the monkeys, who, in return, facilitate the dispersion of seeds through their natural activities, contributing to the cocoa's life cycle. This intricate connection establishes Spider Monkeys as custodians of the sacred cocoa, emphasizing their association with the fertility and perpetuation of this cherished plant.
