Sunday, November 18, 2007

Zuni Fetishes and their meanings

The Mountain Lion (Long Tail) was appointed as Master of the gods of prey and guardian of the North. Stout-hearted and strong-willed. Po'-shai-an K'ia designated that he would become the Maker of Paths(of men's lives) and his color would be yellow, the color of his coat.
The Black Bear (Clumsy Foot) became the Master of the West for his coat was the color of the night. The Bear's color is the Blue of the Pacific and he is revered for his strong Healing powers and abilities to protect and provide for his charges.
The Badger (Black Marked Face) was appointed Guardian of the South and his color is the Red of the distant mountains. He is highly regarded for his perseverance in the face of adversity.
The East was assigned to the Wolf (Hang Tail) and his color the white of the daylight. The Wolf is extremely loyal and possesses the cunning to fend off one's enemies.
The Mole, Master of the lower region, exhibits flexibility and fidelity. His color is black. The mole's burrowing ability illustrates why he is revered. He has the flexibility to change direction at a moment's notice to avoid danger and his burrows often become traps for his predators.
The Eagle (White Cap) guards the Upper region. The Eagle represents all colors and is said to be indefatigable. He tirelessly flies around his domain preserving its openness. He symbolizes free spiritedness.
The Zuni believe that their carved effigies of these animals embody the same traits and powers as their living forms and can provide their possessors with similar traits if their likenesses are well cared for by those bearing them. Read more about Zuni Fetishes here http://www.agalleryofnations.com/understandfetish_.html

No comments: