Native American spirituality always attracted me. What are it's modern forms?

Question

I read "Black Elk Speaks" and really liked it,but I'm not sure if that is a main text or what is used. Anyone know?

Answer 1

Indigo is very correct in stating that new age promotes culture theft of our traditional religions. There is no "modern" form to traditional Native spirituality; however there are few traditionalists left and even fewer Elders who can remember a time when our religions weren't mixed with Christianity.

A lot of these books written on Native spirituality were written by white men, not Natives. Our histories are handed down orally, through songs and stories. The authors of those books observed and rarely participated, they wrote what they thought they saw, not what was really going on... because they couldn't speak the language, didn't know the culture, and didn't find someone to translate for them.

It has long been the goal of the government to rid other cultures of their history... not just my own culture, although it has the most history with the US government when it comes to cultural genocide. Anglo-Saxon Christianity has always been the biggest threat to our nations (no, I'm not picking on Christians here folks, just stating a fact that is easily found in the history books and National Archives). Our ancestors were considered without souls, which made them easy targets for elimination. Either convert or die.

Granted, there are many Native traditions, such as The Native American Church, Inc. (better known as the Peyote Religion, which mixes traditional Peyote Religion with Christianity) which blend Christianity with their teachings. I for one am opposed to this, but it's not my belief system, so to each their own.

Best way to learn about Native traditions, whether culturally or spiritually, is to ask one. If you're able to go to a reservation, even better. If you respectfully present your questions to an elder or Elder, more often than not you will be welcomed. Depends on where you are and what tribe you approach, many are still very protective of the traditions.

Just remember, each Native nation has somewhat of a different belief system when it comes to religion. Even different clans within the same tribe can differ. Not unlike the thousands of different denominations within Christianity, except that our people don't preach that we have the one true religion. We believe that all paths lead to the Creator, so long as they speak truth and honor.

We believe that we must have a good walk with our Creator and try to do what is right. If our neighbor finds a different path than us, then so be it, that's his or her way, not ours.

A good Native author to read is the late Vine DeLoria, Jr, Lakota. Sherman Alexie is another. Stay away from the new age stuff... we are not mystical or magical, we don't shape shift, we don't have animal totems or spirit guides... we just have life and a belief that the Creator has a purpose for us, and that purpose is to do right.

Hope that helps.

Peace and Good Luck,

Beki

Answer 2

I'm no one to say all that much from my outsiders perspective...but as far as I know, legitimate NA spirituality is still traditional. Most 'modern' forms are probably a mix of traditional with the mainstream religion Christianity. "New age" is probably the only modern thing that has taken it, but it's basically theft of only bits and pieces that are distorted to fit the new age view. And new age is heavily frowned upon since it helps promote culture theft, disrespect for private traditional things, and belittling mimicking and mockery of cultures.

Answer 3

Here's a list of Native American Spiritualities in different parts of the world and the US.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Native_American_Spirituality

Sorry this is as far as I can help.

Answer 4

Much of it has been meshed in with Christianity, although some peoples remain faithful to the original ways. There are lots of good books out. You just have to pick what you like in reading.

_()_

Answer 5

ahhh.....i too am interested and yes most of what others have said is true. look up "TILISH DIYAN" ON THE WEB.i have found it attractive. a pulling to my soul.