Advanced/Native Speakers please - different use of "como."

Question

I am reading an essay in my textbook about precolumbian medicine in Hispanoamérica. The use of the word "como" at the beginning of this sentence is unusual for me. After using the dictionary to view possible meanings, I think it is being used to mean "since." Can someone confirm this for me?

"Como se pedía la intervención de los dioses para curar al paciente, esta actividad se consideraba sagrada y los curanderos recibían la estimación de un sacerdote."

I think it means something like: Since the intervention of the gods was asked for (requested) to cure the patient, this activity was considered sacred and the healers (medicine men) received the esteem (respect) of a priest.

Am I right?

Thanks!

Answer 1

"Since" is the correct choice in this context. Your translation is accurate.

Or as no? - afowen, Mar 8, 2011

Thank you very much! - happyquilter, Mar 8, 2011

@Afowen: Yas, "as" is also possible. In this case, "Since" sounds better, in my opinion. - Gekkosan, Mar 8, 2011

Answer 2

Yes, you are right.

Thank you very much! - happyquilter, Mar 8, 2011