Native American Pow Wow
The Native American word “pow wow” literally stands for “the
one who has visions. A pow wow can be a term used to describe a meeting of
the different tribes, or can be the title given to the shaman that is conducting
the ceremony. To understand the significance of the pow wow in today’s
native American society it is important to understand the origins of the ceremony.
Native Americans believe that when the world was created each tribe was
given a unique relationship with nature and the world around them. They
also believed that their faith could be strengthened through their connection
with the earth. Therefore, in times of need or sickness Native Americans
would turn towards nature for guidance.
They would have a meeting that included all of the surrounding tribes and
would pray. A typical Native American prayer included sacrifices, sweats,
and fasts. Through these prayers nature would answer their questions.
Eventually these meetings started to incorporate dancing and singing as
well. To show their respect to nature many Native Americans would imitate
animals during their sacred dances.
When Europeans discovered these sacred meetings they assumed that the term
pow wow was referring only to the dance. However, the Native Americans actually
were using the word to describe the spiritual leaders who were conducting
the ceremonies.
Native American pow wows were later used to resolve conflicts amongst tribes
over hunting grounds. They were also used as a means to prepare warriors
and protect them. When the warriors returned home safely there was often
another Native American pow wow to celebrate their victories and mourn their
losses.
Some traditional communities still practice Native American pow wows. These
meetings are usually meant as a way to honor their ancestors and preserve
their heritage and often greatly resemble the pow wows that were seen in the
1600’s.
Other Resources:
Native American Pow Wow
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