༻The 7 Sacred Teachings༺
The teachings in the Ojibwe culture have been traditionally passed down from generation to generation orally through stories and ceremonies. Of all the North American Indigenous teachings, the 7 Sacred Grandfather Teachings are the most commonly shared from coast to coast, providing guidance for how to align with (and learn from) the wisdom and intelligence of Nature.
1. Humility – Dbaadendiziwin
Humility is represented by the wolf. For the wolf, life is lived for one's pack. Humility is to know that you are a sacred part of creation. Live life selflessly and not selfishly. Do not become arrogant and self-important. Find balance within yourself and in your relationship with all living things.
2. Bravery – Aakwa’ode’ewin
Bravery is represented by the bear. The mother bear has the courage and strength to face her fears and challenges while protecting her young. Find your inner strength to face the difficulties of life and be yourself. Face your fears to allow yourself to live your life with courage.
3. Honesty – Gwekwaadziwin
Honesty is represented by either the raven or the sabe. Be honest with yourself. Recognize and accept who you are. Accept and use the gifts you have been given. Do not seek to deceive yourself or others.
4. Wisdom – Nbwaakaawin
The beaver represents wisdom because she uses her natural gift wisely for her family's survival. The beaver also alters her environment in a sustainable way, benefiting other species. Use your inherent gifts wisely and live your life by them. Continuously observe the life of all things around you. Allow yourself to learn and live by your natural wisdom.
5. Truth – Debwewin
Truth is represented by the turtle as he was here during the creation of Earth and carries the teachings of life on his back. The turtle lives life in a slow and deliberate manner, understanding the importance of both the journey and the destination. Show honor and sincerity in all that you say and do. Be true to yourself and all other beings.
6. Respect – Mnaadendimowin
Respect is represented by the buffalo. To honor all creation is to have respect. Do not waste resources and be mindful of the balance of all living things. Share and give away what you do not need. Treat others the way you would like to be treated.
7. Love – Zaagidwin
The eagle represents love because he has the strength to carry all the teachings. The eagle has the ability to fly highest and closest to the creator and also has the sight to see all the ways of being from great distances. The Eagle’s teaching of love can be found in the core of all teachings, therefore an eagle feather is considered the highest honor and a sacred gift. To know love is to know peace. View your inner-self from the perspective of all 7 teachings. This is to know love truly. Then you will be at peace with yourself, the balance of life, all things and also with the creator.
Primary text source (edited slightly): The 7 Grandfathers Teachings
https://unitingthreefiresagainstviolence.org/the-7-grandfathers-teachin/