Supernatural intervention as an explanation for natural phenomena in Native American mythologies

• Main Author: Sims, Melissa
• Other Authors: Ball State University. Dept. of Anthropology.
• Format: Others
• Published: 2011
• Subjects: Indians of North America > Religion.; Weather > Folklore.; Storms > Folklore.; Nature > Religious aspects.
• Online Access: http://cardinalscholar.bsu.edu/handle/handle/185376; http://liblink.bsu.edu/uhtbin/catkey/935922

Natural phenomena and natural disasters occur across the regions of the United States. While science now provides factual documentation for causes of meteorological and geological events, most Native American tribes lacked scientific explanations of these occurrences. Native Americans, however, sought to explain the effects and often devastation resulting from meteorological and geological events in some manner. The religions and mythologies of many cultures provide explanations for the occurrence of natural phenomena through supernatural intervention. The presentation of myths by geographic region provided the basis for analysis of explanations for natural phenomena. Regional analysis of myths suggests that commonalities exist among Native American Groups experiencing similar meteorological and geological events. Furthermore, common themes span across regional boundaries. For example, the use of a Thunderbird, a large bird with glowing eyes, as an explanation for the occurrence of thunder and storms occurs in every region of the United States. Another common theme is the use of a storm by a supernatural force as punishment for unacceptable behaviors of the earth's inhabitants. The most frequent example of this is the theme of a flood that destroys many inhabitants at some point in the history of the tribe. Often, storms and other natural phenomena have explanations based in the creation myth of the tribe. Another theme in myths regarding natural phenomena is the resolution of opposing forces. In many myths, the opposition exists between humans and nature, weather beings or spirits, or animals and nature. Myths regarding natural phenomena occasionally contain the attempt by humans or animals to gain control over nature or natural elements. The results of this control vary from favorable to unfavorable for those involved. A final theme exhibited in many myths is the function of a supernatural force associated with weather as a guardian, protector, and provider. The belief in these guardians provides Native Americans with assurance that they will be protected, and provided for, especially in times of natural disasters or storms. Research indicates that compilation of myths regarding natural phenomena facilitates regional and cross-cultural analysis and understanding of the role of supernatural intervention in Native American comprehension of natural phenomena. === Department of Anthropology