Seven Grandfather Teachings Above photo features Nookii Hilda-baa Nadjiwan’s Seven Grandfather Teaching stones. Gwayakwaadiziwin Honesty 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. Nibwaakaawin Wisdom 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 expresses not only wisdom, but also means prudence, intelligence or knowledge. In some communities, Gikendaasowin is used. Aakode’ewin Bravery 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 use either Zoongadikiwin (state of having a strong casing) or Zoongide’ewin (state of having a strong heart). Zaagi’idiwin Love 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.’ Minaadendamowin Respect To honour 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. Debwewin Truth Truth is to know all of these things. Speak the truth. Do not deceive yourself or others. Dabaadendiziwin Humility 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.
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