Why is it difficult for modern experts to translate some parts of the Mayan language? It's difficult for modern experts to translate some parts of the Mayan language because the language is no longer spoken and it isn't used for writing. The Maya often destroyed cities when they were battling for new territory. The Spanish destroyed many of the artifacts with the keys to the Mayan language. This began in 1981 when 15-year-old budding Mayanist David Stuart discovered that individual Maya words could be written in multiple ways, using different symbols for the same sounds, as in "faze" and "phase." Eric Thompson's theory had been that the Maya wrote in rebus. The hieroglyphic writing of the Maya has not been completely deciphered, however, and can still only be interpreted, rather than read. To date, nearly 85 percent of known Maya hieroglyphics have been decoded. The Mayan language is considered writing to be a sacred gift from the gods. I really hope this helps!! Have an amazing day <3