Highlighting Native Culture: The Feather

In Native American culture, everything is believed to embody inherent virtue, power, and wisdom. One of the most powerful symbols is the feather, representing honor and the unbreakable bond between the owner, the Creator, and the bird from which it originated. The feather embodies essential values, including trust, strength, wisdom, power, and freedom, and is revered as a symbol of high honor.

Warriors in Native American tradition were given feathers to symbolize their victory in battle or exceptional courage during warfare. When a feather falls to the ground, it is believed to carry the bird's essence, and it is seen as a gift from the sky, sea, and forest. Feathers may appear unexpectedly, but they are believed to have a purpose.

Each type of feather carries a unique meaning, with the eagle's feather being among the most esteemed. The eagle is regarded as the mightiest and most courageous of all birds, and its feathers embody the qualities of utmost strength, bravery, holiness, and nobility. They are considered to possess strong medicine.

The United States law recognizes the exceptional value of eagle feathers in Native American culture, religion, and tradition. Although the eagle is a highly protected species under U.S. law, special exceptions are made to allow Native Americans to possess, gift, pass down, and acquire eagle feathers under specific conditions.

Eagle feathers are presented as a sign of honor and are exhibited with dignity and pride, always handled with the utmost respect. If an eagle feather is dropped during a dance, a unique ceremony is conducted before it is picked up, and the owner takes great care to avoid dropping it again.

In addition, the eagle feather adorns the sacred pipe, representing the Great Spirit who is above all and the source of all strength and power. Holding a feather above someone's head is a blessing, extending wishes for bravery and happiness. As with many Native American symbols, feathers are tattooed onto bodies to serve as a reminder of one's journey or to tell one's story. Waving a feather over everyone present is a gesture that conveys good wishes for peace, prosperity, and happiness.

Written By: Alice.in.Londini.land