Yesterday I spoke of the seven sacred teachings and that each teaching is represented by a bird or animal. You had no idea what I was talking about so I thought it might be a good idea to tell you more about it.
The Seven Sacred Teachings originate from the Seven Grandfather Teachings from the Anishinaabe people and have been adopted by many (but not all) First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples. The teachings focus on the relationships we have with all of creation and offer suggestions for the ways people should treat others.
The Seven Sacred Teachings
Like all cultures that survive many centuries, there is collective knowledge about the meaning of life that is shared from one generation to the next. They are meant to guide us in a good life in peace and harmony with all of creation.
They are really ‘lines to live by’.
The 7 Sacred Teachings
Love – represented by the Eagle
Humility – represented by the wolf
Bravery – represented by the bear
Honesty- represented by the raven
Wisdom – represented by the beaver
Truth – represented by the turtle
Respect – represented by the buffalo
Love is the gift from the Eagle. The eagle has the ability to fly highest and closest to the Creator. It also has the sight to see all the ways of being from great distances. The Eagle’s teaching of love are in the core of all teachings. Love is a force that is undeniable. With love all things are possible. It is everyone’s right to have and experience it. To know peace is to know Love. Love must be unconditional.
The Wolf carries humility. Humility is to know yourself as a sacred part of Creation. You are equal to others, but you are not better.
The Bear carries courage. Bravery is to face the foe with integrity. It is to have a fearless heart to do what is right even when the consequences are unpleasant. We seek the strength and courage to face our greatest enemy – oneself.
Honesty is carried by the Raven. Honesty in facing a situation is to be brave. Always be honest in word and action. Be honest first with yourself, and you will more easily be able to be honest with others.
The Beaver carries wisdom. To cherish knowledge is to know Wisdom. Wisdom is given by the Creator to be used for the good of the people. Wisdom is the gained experience and knowledge is to know the difference and accept responsibility and accountability.
The Turtle carries truth. Speak the truth. Do not deceive yourself or others. Since the beginning of time the turtle has been able to adapt to change without changing. She represents truth and time. Her shell has thirteen big plates, symbolizing the thirteen moons in one year.
Respect is the gift from the Buffalo. In all life, respect is first and foremost. All of creation should be treated with respect. You must give respect if you wish to be respected.
