1. ABORIGINAL SYMBOLS & SYMBOLISM

2. Native American symbols offer a complete language of life, nature, and spirit. A language which is unmatched in it's depth and power. The language derives it's power from the fact that American Indians viewed all things - whether seen or touched - living or inanimate - as possessors of a spirit. Further, they recognize that everything in the universe holds a deeper meaning. As a result, all objects and beings deserve one's attention and respect. Therefore, Native American symbols are an integral part of the Indian life.

3. Native American use of symbols vary according to different nations and regions, here are a few uses: As assurance that guardian spirits are present. Whether a warrior needs bolstered courage, or a new home needs a blessing - symbols always mark the occasion. Seeking assistance from a spirit. These symbols are the image of the spirit, and thus the object on which the symbol is depicted (tools, blankets, etc) is spiritually charged. This means that where a symbol is so too is the original power.

4. The American Indian, as a whole, is constantly aware of its relationship with Mother Earth and her creatures. The spiritual goal of the Native American is to live in harmony with the universe.

5. Turtle Island The symbol for North America, also referred to as Mother Earth, is a turtle. The Turtle is considered to be one of the oldest most sacred symbols for many Aboriginal peoples. They believe that North America was created on the back of a turtle.

6. Eagle Feather A symbol of strength, gives holder power to represent others. Symbolizes the dualities or contradictions in life. Also a symbol of healthy relationships.

7. Dream Catcher If hung over your bed your bad dreams are filtered through the web and dissipate into the Universe; your good dreams remain caught in the web.

8. Eagle The protector of Peace that sits atop the Tree of Peace Universally accepted as the principle messenger of the Creator. The Eagle is a powerful symbol of courage; that is why its feathers are such powerful tools for healing, and why there are special ceremonies for Eagle feathers.

9. Fire For most Tribes, fire symbolizes the heart of The People. Present at all ceremonies in one form or another, from smoke in a smudge bowl or pipe carrying prayers to Great Mystery, to the blazing fire at a Sun Dance or Potlatch. Fire cleanses the spirit, it is used to heat the Grandfathers (rocks) before placing them in the pit of a sweatlodge; the smoke from the fire is used to send prayers to the Great Mystery. Fire represents cleansing and renewal, for out of the ashes comes new growth, new thoughts, rebirth of ideas and new ways of being.

10. Land At the root of all Native teachings, lies in the reverence for the land. Mother Earth gave the Red People a special gift of Turtle Island (North America). There was a fundamental misunderstanding in the early dialogues between First Nations people and the Europeans who sought to purchase their land. The Indigenous Ancestors were mystified by such negotiations because the land was not something to be bought and sold.

11. The land was the lifeblood of The People; its inherent sacredness lived in the souls of every member of the Red Race. It was to be kept in a good way, nourished and loved. In the words of Chief Sealth (also known as Seattle), "How can I sell what I do not own. It is only owned by that which created it in the first place."

12. Tree Great League of Peace The people of the Six Nations (Iroquois Confederacy) include the: Mohawks, Oneidas, Onondagas, Cayugas, Senecas, and the Tuscaroras. Together these peoples comprise the oldest living participatory democracy on earth The central idea underlying Iroquois political philosophy is that peace is the will of the Creator, and the ultimate spiritual goal and natural order among humans.

13. The Tree of Peace Tall white pine planted to represent the Great Law of Peace, unified the Five Nations under one law. The Peacemaker proclaimed, "If any man or nation shows a desire to obey the Law of the Great Peace, they may trace the roots to their source, and be welcomed to take shelter beneath the Tree."

14. Circle Circle = Symbol of unity, strength and cycles of life.

15. Totem Poles Totem poles, very integral part of Native American culture. Believed that each person was assigned the spirit of a particular animal, and that their spirit was absorbed into this animal in death. Totem pole was a large, tall wooden carving of various animals, each representing a family member of a loved one who had passed away.