Listen to the Wind, Follow the Eagle: Discovering Ancient Hopi Values

In the heart of the ardent desert, where the wind sings forgotten melodies and the echoes of ancients murmur through the canyons, lies the Hopi people. In the pursuit of a life infused with faith and wisdom, the Hopis weave a sacred narrative, where each step is a dance, each word a prayer. Inspired by the breath of the wind and the shadow of the eagle, a Hopi embodies deep interiority, awakening the practical and spiritual understanding of life. It is a journey guided by benevolence and humility, where each gesture becomes an offering to nature and the teachings of the creator.

Listening to the Wind, Following the Eagle: Exploring Ancient Hopi Values

Discovering Hopi Values

I invite you to explore this text excerpted from the book "Wisdom of the American Indians: On the Hopi Way" by Françoise Perriot, , which cites 'The Hopi Foundation' text. I highly recommend Françoise Perriot's work, a richly documented piece on the Hopis, undoubtedly one of the best in the French language.

I leave you to the reading of the text excerpt that shares Hopi values by exploring the foundational principles that guide a Hopi's existence. Each word carries the weight of a culture steeped in faith, education, and a vision of life tinted with harmony and humility.

Les Valeurs Traditionnelles Hopis

HOPI TRADITIONAL VALUES

Hopi... And one who throughout life is a quest to obtain faith and wisdom through prayer, education, and hope; a quest to acquire a practical and spiritual understanding of life, in general, and of the community, from the perspective of an eagle, with an attitude of benevolence and humility.

A Hopi... and one who has achieved the sense of Kyavitsi (interiority) by maintaining the highest degree of respect and obedience to moral standards and ethics, in order not to knowingly abuse, assume, modify the rhythm and cycle of nature, nor the sacred manifestations of the creator's teachings.

A Hopi... and one who brings to life the meaning of Sumi’nangwa (making efforts for the benefit of all) and allies with others for activities, collectively, for the benefit of all, with the desire to engage in bringing something valuable that is beneficial to the entire society.

A Hopi... And one who follows the path of Nami’nangwa (helping one another), offering assistance in times of need without being asked, and without expecting any return.

A Hopi... and one who gives meaning to Hita’nangwa (volunteering) by taking the initiative to help without needing to be directed or called to do so, regardless of whether anyone notices your effort, but that what you do makes a difference.

A Hopi... And one who understands that to achieve a dream, one must not only pray for what one desires but also make a sincere commitment and work diligently to pursue the dream or goal until it is achieved.

A Hopi... and one who understands that the creator has provided all the resources that all living beings need to coexist here, including the means by which the human race can obtain a healthy, self-sufficient, and happy life.

A Hopi... and one who understands that the greatest sense of accomplishment and fulfillment comes from our participation in social and community functions or activities, knowing that our contributions have brought benefits to the community and the people.

QOYAHONGNIWA,SONGOOPAVI, 1995

Harmony with Nature: The Hopi Woman and the Sacred Cycle

Thoughts of a Western Woman

Over the years, I have traversed the seasons of my life, like the wind caressing the arid hills. As a Western woman, I stand at the edge of the desert, scrutinizing the ancient echoes of Hopi values that resonate through the centuries. These teachings, carried by the breath of the wind and the shadow of the eagle, invite me to deep introspection, to immerse myself in the rivers of my own existence.

Questions and Meditations

And I wonder, what would be my reality if I opened myself to these principles every day? If I let interiority guide my choices, if absolute respect for nature became the guiding thread of my steps, and if commitment to collective benefit inspired my actions? The Hopis suggest that in this inner transformation, authentic wealth emanates from harmonious communion with nature, spontaneous mutual aid to my fellow beings, and fulfillment found in a selfless contribution to my community.

Towards a Modern Ecospirituality

So, I meditate on these teachings, letting my mind wander in the vast expanses where the Hopis have traced their path. I imagine a world where ethics, righteousness, and deep connection with nature are the foundations of my actions. A world where the language of the heart between humans and towards all living things resonates as a universal melody, a symphony where each note is a prayer, each gesture an offering.

I also can't help but think of a discipline unfortunately overlooked in Europe: ecospirituality. A kind of Western and modern version of the principles of indigenous peoples. I recommend discovering the author Michel Maxime Egger, who promotes this discipline in Europe.

Returning to the Essence of Self

In my journey, I remember that true transformation arises from my personal awareness. It is time to return to the essence of my being, to restore a deep connection with the world around me. Hopi values become my spiritual compass, inviting me to restore harmony with the Earth, with others, and with myself. May every action become a celebration of life, a step towards an existence where ecospirituality guides my path to a future imbued with understanding, peace, and benevolence.

I feel the call to embrace the quest for interiority, to walk with respect in the footsteps of those who understand that true wealth lies in mutual benefit. The Hopis remind me that my fulfillment stems from sincere contribution to my community, spontaneous mutual aid, and commitment to dreams that transcend the individual to embrace collective well-being.

Conclusion

I am in search of a life where prayer, education, and hope blend harmoniously with my commitment to the community and my responsibility to nature. This text is a call to embrace these timeless teachings and to walk in harmony with the sacred rhythm of life.

Thus, under the light of the stars that watch over Hopi lands, I invite you to join this quest. Share your thoughts, comments, or experiences inspired by these teachings. Together, let's create a community where wisdom and benevolence guide our steps. 

Join us by becoming a member to explore the Hopi way and contribute to a world where understanding, peace, harmony, and benevolence are the pillars of our existence.