Q'alel Ajaw

El lingüista k'iche' Sam Colop (2008: 205n364) define q'alel como "capitanes" o "ministros", asociado en particular con el linaje Nija'ib'. Los diccionarios coloniales suelen traducir el término como "cacique", "príncipe", "persona notable", "capitán" y "alcalde".

Allen J. Christenson (2007: n718) explains the position of q'alel ajaw within larger K'iche' political structures -- a term whose K'iche' origin resists translation into English. He writes, "It is the third highest position within the Nima Quiché line (after Ah Pop and Ah Pop of the Reception House). The title is specifically linked with the Nihaib lineage. Neither the Cavec, the Ajau Quichés, nor the Zaquics (the other three lineages within the Nima Quiché alliance) have a Q'alel title. Colonial dictionaries give a variety of descriptive meanings to it including 'cacique' (Spanish for a native chief), 'generous person, prince' (Coto), or simply an 'important person' (Varea). Coto also lists ah εalel as a 'constable.' Basseta defines calel achi as a 'captain of soldiers.' In modern Quiché, the title is given to judges, and some early dictionaries suggest that this office may have included judicial functions as well. The title is likely something akin to 'magistrate' with duties that include peacekeeping and military activity. Ajaw is 'lord.'"