Every symbol used by an American Native Indian had meaning which can be accessed from Symbols and Meanings. The clothes, tepees and all of his belongings was decorated with art and included symbols depicting his achievements, acts of heroism, his various spirit guides or the most important events in his life. Their religion was dominated by rituals and belief in a spiritual connection with nature and these beliefs were reflected in the various symbols they used such as the Circle symbol. Native American Indians had a highly complex culture, especially those who lived on the Great Plains. Indian Tribes also used their own Colors for Symbols and designs depending on the natural resources available to make Native American paint. Native Indian symbols are still used as Tattoos and were used for a variety of reasons and depicted on numerous objects such as tepees, totem poles, musical instruments, clothes and War Paint. There were so many tribes of Native American Indians it is only possible to generalise the most common meaning of the Circle symbol or pattern. The circle symbols are believed to be associated with religion and astronomy. The rock paintings which include various circle symbols and signs were created by the Chumash people of southern California. The following Native American Circle Symbols are depicted on ancient Rock Paintings that were found at Santa Barbara. There were many Sun symbols that utilised the shape of the circle with rays emanating for it.Ĭircle Symbols on Native American Rock Paintings The final petal-like symbol represents the earth's forces passing into the atmosphere These additional circle symbols symbolizes control over forces and the gravity of the earth. The following cross and circle symbols relate to the Four Great Primary Forces and their place in the universe. many are presented in combinations with other icons such as Cross Symbols. There are many other circle symbols that have been used by both the Mound Builders and the Native Americans. The Meaning of other Circle Symbols to the Native Americans
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The cross in circle was one of the most sacred symbols of Native Americans as it represented the Sun, Moon and fire. The four circles inside the outer outline on the Earth symbol represent the four nations (the first four tribes of mankind) which came to the world to keep balance. The water symbol represents the sustenance of life. The fire circle represents warmth and light. The elements are the four great primary forces emanating from the Creator. The individual elements of Air, Fire, Water and Earth are each represented by a circle. The four bars represent north, south, east and west.
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The four elements is represented by the Hopi tribe with the following circle, called the "Cosmic Cross" or the Cross in the Circle - Solar Cross Symbol. The concessions and encampment form another circle around the gathering. Dancing took place in the center of a circle formed by the drums and the audience.
NATIVE AMERICAN CIRCLE OF LIFE SERIES
Gatherings in Pow-wows were organised in a series of circles. The circle is an important symbol to Native American Indians.
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The circle has no break and holds that which cannot be broken. A circle around other Native American symbols signifies family ties, closeness & protection. Circle meetings ensured that all people were allowed to speak and the words spoken were accepted and respected on an equal basis.
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The circle is symbolic of equality, where no person is more prominent than any other person.