The ancient Inca so feared the diminished effects of the sun during winter, they would fast, create lavish banquets to honor the sun, and sacrifice llamas to ensure a bountiful crop. The Incas believed in reincarnation, that death was ascension beyond life, as long as one followed the rules “do not steal, do not lie, do not be lazy.” To move upwards after death was to move towards the warmth of the sun—while the rule breakers went to a cold, faraway place. The rise of Christianity in the 16th century labeled the Incas as pagans prohibiting their beliefs and practices. Even though the church became wise to the sun god roots of the Christ mythos, Inti Raymi remained resilient as an underground phenomenon until 1944 when the government and church sanctioned it. It is now the second largest festival on the South American continent.