The Native Americans’ Beliefs About Life
1. Introduction:
The Native Americans believed that life had four stages (childhood, youth, adulthood and elderhood) or the four hills of life. The first stage began at birth and ended when a person reached puberty. The second stage began at puberty and ended when a person got married. The third stage began when a person got married and ended when they had children. The fourth and final stage began when a person’s children were grown and ended when they died.
The Native Americans also believed that each stage had its own challenges and gifts. For example, childhood was a time for learning and growing. Youth was a time for adventure and exploration. Adulthood was a time for work and responsibility. Elderhood was a time for wisdom and guidance.
2. Childhood:
Childhood was a time for learning and growing. During this stage, children were taught the skills they would need to survive in the world. They were also taught the traditions of their tribe.
3. Youth:
Youth was a time for adventure and exploration. During this stage, young people left their homes to find their own place in the world. They also had to find their own mates and start their own families.
4. Adulthood:
Adulthood was a time for work and responsibility. During this stage, adults had to provide for their families. They also had to protect their families from danger.
5. Elderhood:
Elderhood was a time for wisdom and guidance. During this stage, elders shared their knowledge with the younger generations. They also helped to solve problems within the community.
6. Conclusion:
The Native Americans believed that life was a cycle. They believed that each stage had its own challenges and gifts. They also believed that it was important to respect the elders and to share their wisdom with the younger generations.