Teachings of the Seven Grandfathers

Teachings of the Seven Grandfathers, known simply as either the Seven Teachings or Seven Grandfathers, is a set of teaching on human conduct towards others, taught among the Anishinaabe peoples.

Background

According to the aadizookaan (traditional story), the teachings were given to the Anishinaabeg early in their history. Seven Grandfathers asked their messenger to take a survey of the human condition. At that time the human condition was not very good. Eventually in his quest, the messenger came across a child. After receiving approval from the Seven Grandfathers, tutored the child in the "Good way of Life". Before departing from the Seven Grandfathers, each of the Grandfathers instructed the child with a principle.

Teachings

* "Nibwaakaawin"—To cherish knowledge is to know Wisdom. Wisdom is given by the Creator to be used for the good of the people. In the Anishinaabe language, this word espresses not only "wisdom," also means "prudence," or "intelligence." In some communities, "Gikendaasowin" is used; in addition to "wisdom," this word can also mean "intelligence" or "knowledge."

* "Zaagi'idiwin"—To know Love is to know peace. Love must be unconditional. When people are weak they need love the most. In the Anishinaabe language, this word with the reciprocal theme /idi/ indicates that this form of love is mutual. In some communities, "Gizhaawenidiwin" is used, which in most context means "jealousy" but in this context is translated as either "love" or "zeal". Again, the reciprocal theme /idi/ indicates that this form of love is mutual.

* "Minaadendamowin"—To honor all creation is to have Respect. All of creation should be treated with respect. You must give respect if you wish to be respected. Some communities instead use "Ozhibwaadenindiwin" or "Manazoonidiwin".

* "Aakode'ewin"—Bravery is to face the foe with integrity. In the Anishinaabe language, this word literally means "state of having a fearless heart." To do what is right even when the consequences are unpleasant. Some communities instead use either "Zoongadikiwin" ("state of having a strong casing") or "Zoongide'ewin" ("state of having a strong heart").

* "Gwayakwaadiziwin"—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. In the Anishinaabe language, this word can also mean "righteousness."

* "Dabaadendiziwin"—Humility is to know yourself as a sacred part of Creation. In the Anishinaabe language, this word can also mean "compassion." You are equal to others, but you are not better. Some communities instead express this with " Bekaadiziwin", which in addition to "humility" can also be translated as "calmness," "meekness," "gentility" or "patience."

* "Debwewin"—Truth is to know all of these things. Speak the truth. Do not deceive yourself or others.

See also

* Seven Laws of Noah—Seven universal teachings in Judaism

External links

* [http://www.treaty3.ca/pdfs/grandchief/gct3/seven_teachings.pdf Seven Teachings] from Grand Council Treaty 3
* [http://www.nandecade.ca/article/cultural--teachings-133.asp Cultural Teachings] from Nishnawbe Aski Nation
* [http://famousamericanindians4.homestead.com/7GrndfthrswTranslation.html Re-telling the "Seven Grandfather" by Don Able]
* [http://news.minnesota.publicradio.org/features/2003/08/18_gundersond_spiritgrandfathe/ Rekindling the Spirit: The Rebirth of American Indian Spirituality — The Seven Grandfathers] from Minnesota Public Radio
* [http://www.anishinaabemdaa.com/grandfathers.htm Audio files] from Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, Anishinaabemowin Program
* [http://www.faculty.de.gcsu.edu/%7Emmagouli/ttnarr.htm#_ftn8 Traditional Teaching Narratives in the Eastern Upper Peninsula of Michigan]
* [http://homepage.mac.com/cohora/puzpro/birch/7.html The Seven Teachings of the Anishinaabe] by Cindy O'Hora

Further readings

* Benton Banai, Edward (1979). "The Mishomis Book" (St. Paul, MN: Indian Country Press)