by Dawn R. Cole

Created on: September 22, 2008

ANIMALS IN NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURE

The entire Native American belief system is composed of circles, cycles, balance and harmony among all things, physical and spiritual. According to the Oglala Sioux, "God is within all things," and this statement holds true for all Native Americans. The interconnectedness of all life forms, and respect and interaction with Nature, was believed to be a way that man could communicate with the Creator, or Great Spirit.

Animals played a special role in Native American cultures. They did not worship animals; they honored and respected them. Animals were seen as teachers, guides and companions, as well as being their key to survival.

Native American's existence was dependent upon animals for everything from food, clothing, and transportation, to signaling seasonal changes and assisting with agricultural pursuits. They prayed over the body, only took what they needed, used every piece, and did their best give back, aiding in repopulation, and provided balance to Nature.

Many Native American legends relate their reverence for the animal kingdom, which lead to the creation of symbolic "power animals." These power animals possessed strengths and characteristics that were adopted by families, clans, or entire tribes who possessed similar human attributes. Many Native Americans believed that there was a direct ancestral kinship to specific animals, making them their emblem, or totem. They would "claim" the power of the chosen animal and identify with the aspects of its natural spirit.

Individuals would also lay claim to one of the power animals. The animal would become a totem, or symbol, of that person's identity. The animal's spirit could be invoked through prayer, meditation, and visions. The person would connect and communicate with the animal, internalizing its traits, and gain the knowledge, wisdom and strengths it possesses.

In Native American tradition, nine different animals are associated with each individual. These animals act as guides, coming in and out of life when we require assistance with the challenges or directional paths we will face on our journey.

They also believed that everyone is born with an affinity or interest in a certain type of animal. It may be due to their characteristics, early interaction, or they may frequently appear in our dreams. This is our totem animal. The totem (or power) animal is separate from the others, acting more like a guardian spirit, and is with us through our physical and spiritual life.

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