Native Americans have always been a diverse and intriguing people. Scientific evidence shows us that they had been living in North America for many years before the "discovery" of America. Their culture was rich and diversified with many different tribes, each with their own set of values, beliefs and practices. While each tribe was unique in different ways, there were many beliefs and customs that they held in common. Most of these tribes believed in one god or higher power of which was considered to be the source of all creation. They did not necessarily perceive this one power in the way that most other religions, such as Christianity, Judaism or Muslim, do in a human-like form. Instead, they interpreted this higher power as an all encompassing energy force or great light. In fact, many of these people worshiped the sun as a physical manifestation of the great and divine power.
Other beliefs that were commonly held amongst Native American tribes included the belief that every living thing, including all plants and animals, had a spirit. Even some non-living things such as rocks were believed to have a spirit. In some cases, the belief was that animals not only had spirits, but that these spirits embodied particular attributes of the higher power and that each person could have an animal spirit as their guide throughout life.
To determine which animal was a tribe member's personal guide, they were often required to spend time alone in the wilderness in fasting and prayer until they received a vision that revealed to them their animal spirit. This was usually done in early adolescence around the ages of 12 or 13 and these young people could spend many days on this quest which was considered a vitally important part of determining their future.
Many rituals were performed for great events and even for the everyday activities of life. Dances, songs and artwork were a vital part of these rituals which were performed before a great hunt or battle, to give thanks for a plentiful harvest or to pray to the Great Spirit for an end to drought or famine. These tribal people painted, carved, sculpted and sewed as a way of expressing their faith and their pride in their families and tribes.
Storytelling was also a rich part of these people's cultural beliefs. Stories were used to pass down historical events, teach lessons or just to entertain the tribe. Some stories were told of how animal spirits accomplished great feats and literally changed the shape of the earth.
Today, there are a great number of people fascinated with Native American folklore and culture. The works of many contemporary artisans exhibit a significant influence by the traditions of the Native Americans in designs of their southwestern jewelry, artwork and clothing. These artisans obviously believe that this is an important way to keep alive the rich and unique cultural influences of the past.
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