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Native American Spirituality
By Robert Staffanson
Executive Director, American Indian Institute
A simplistic definition of Native American spirituality would be that it
is the opposite of pragmatism (i.e. short-term concern with "practical"
results). While Native American spirituality is not easily defined, it has
several defining characteristics:
- Recognition of the interconnectedness of all Creation, and the
responsibility of human beings to use their intelligence in protecting
that inter- connectedness. That applies particularly to the lifegiving
elements: water, air and soil.
- A belief that all life is equal, and that the presence of the life
spark implies a degree of spirituality whether in humans, animals or
plants. In their view the species of animals and birds, as well as forests
and other plant life, have as much "right" to existence as human beings,
and should not be damaged or destroyed. That does not mean that they
cannot be used but that use has limitations.
- Their primary concern is with the long-term welfare of life rather
than with short-term expediency or comfort. They consider all issues and
actions in relationship to their long-term effect on all life, not just
human life.
- Their spirituality is undergirded by thankfulness to the Creator.
Prayer, ceremonies, meditation and fasting are an important part of their
lives. But they ask for nothing. They give thanks: for all forms of life
and for all the elements that make life possible, and they are concerned
with the continuation of that life and the ingredients upon which it
depends.
Traditional Native Americans believe that any of their people who lack
spirituality are no longer Indian. Traditional Native Americans do not see
any spirituality in our "western" world. They believe that we have a kind
of mindless materialism that is destroying both us and the world we live
in.
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Wisdom from the great Native American leader Tecumseh
"So live your life that the fear of death can never enter your heart.
Trouble no one about his religion; respect others in their view, and
demand that they respect yours. Love your life, perfect your life,
beautify all things in your life. Seek to make your life long and its
purpose in the service of your people. Prepare a noble death song for the
day when you go over the great divide. Always give a word or a sign of
salute when meeting or passing a friend, even a stranger, when in a lonely
place. Show respect to all people and grovel to none.
"When you arise in the morning give thanks for the food and for the joy of
living. If you see no reason for giving thanks, the fault lies only in
yourself. Abuse no one and nothing, for abuse turns the wise ones to fools
and robs the spirit of its vision. When it comes your time to die, be not
like those whose hearts are filled with the fear of death, so that when
their time comes they weep and pray for a little more time to live their
lives over again in a different way. Sing your death song and die like a
hero going home."
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Center of the World
Native American spirituality by Rita Robinson
This book teaches that we are connected to one another and to all creation. From this central belief-common to all the rich and diversified Native American cultures--comes the realization that you can live a simple and reverent life in a complex world. You can repair the damage created by modern society. You can live in balance with all creation.
In this important book Don Rutledge and Rita Robinson draw upon Cree and other Native American traditions to present rituals and ceremonies that speak a universal language of respect for the earth and our place among all other living things. CENTER OF THE WORLD will open your eyes to many of the myths and misunderstandings about the Native American. The simple ceremonies and spiritual beliefs presented in this book will enrich your life and help heal the earth.
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