Indigenous Rituals Flashcards
What is smudging?
A holy act that involves burning sacred herbs to purify people and places
Commonly performed before events like weddings or powwows.
What do the shell and water represent in Indigenous rituals?
The shell represents water
Water is often seen as a sacred element.
What are the four sacred plants used in smudging?
- Cedar
- Sweetgrass
- Sage
- Tobacco
What does the Sacred Pipe Ceremony symbolize?
Unity and harmony of the world
The pipe’s bowl represents trust, and the stem symbolizes harmony and balance.
What is the significance of the pipe in Indigenous culture?
Represents unity and harmony of the world
Who typically gives a name during the Birth and Naming ceremony?
A name giver, often a grandparent or elder
The name is revealed through fasting, meditation, prayer, or dreams.
What is a Vision Quest?
An intense spiritual experience for young people seeking direction in life
Involves sitting quietly for days with no food and little water.
What preparations are made for a Vision Quest?
Use of tobacco and a pipe, hallucinogens may also be taken
These elements are part of the ritual preparation.
What is a Death Feast?
A celebration for the spirit of those who died, where families hold feasts
Food is placed outside, and a place is set for the deceased.
What is the purpose of a Sweat Lodge?
To purify the body, mind, spirit, and heart
It restores the right relationships with self, others, and the Creator.
What is celebrated during the Harvest Feast?
The harvest from the field and forest
Recognizes the spirits that provided food and includes prayers, chants, and dances.
What are the ‘3 sisters’ in Indigenous agriculture?
- Squash
- Corn
- Wheat
What is the Powwow?
A dance of renewal for restoration of right relationships and healing of all creation
Involves singing and dancing in a circle blessed by a Spiritual leader.
What does the drum symbolize at a Powwow?
The heartbeat of the Powwow
It connects participants to their ancestors and the earth.
What do feathers represent in Indigenous culture?
Honor, respect, bravery
