The Role of the Bald Eagle in the Native American Culture

Thunder Horse

When the earth was created, a great thundercloud appeared on the horizon. Flashing lightening and thundering it descended toward the treetops. As the mists cleared, there was an eagle perched on the highest branch. He took flight and flew slowly down to the ground. As he approached the earth, he put forward his foot, and as he stepped upon the ground, he became a man. For this reason we recognize the eagle as a messenger of the creator, and rely upon him to carry word of our actions to the creator.

When an eagle comes to where we are working, we know that someone cares about us and is watching over us. Eagles assume a role in numerous legends involving Native American culture. The legend of the Thunderbird is familiar to most of us. It is usually depicted in the form of a huge eagle, or at times, a vulture. It was believed to cause thunder when it flew, hence its name. Some Indian nations or tribes considered the eagle to be the persona of the Great Spirit, and believed the raptor carried ceremonial prayers to the Creator.

The golden eagle is looked upon as the eagle of war, and their dropped feathers are revered by tribes. Along with the bear, eagles represent Nature’s power and authority. The eagle has the keenest eyesight and flies higher than any bird. It is America’s national symbol and the image of the bald eagle has long been our country’s cry for truth, power and freedom.

The wings of an eagle represent the necessary balance between genders, whereby the male and female depend on the abilities and strengths of the other. In aboriginal culture, to be awarded an eagle feather is the highest honor. As a totem, or symbolic animal, the eagle claims the individual characteristics of spiritual philosophy and high ideals.

The eagle is the sacred bird of almost every Indian nation. It figures prominently in many Native American ceremonial rituals. The stories and legends vary with each tribal group, but a common practice is that only the bravest warriors and Holy Men were permitted to wear eagle feathers. Eagle medicine provides the ability to exist in the realm of the spirit, and still remain connected and in balance within the earth’s realm.

An eagle can only be killed by a professional Eagle Killer who knew the proper ceremony for placing aside vengeance by the eagle’s spirit. An Eagle Dance had to be held before an eagle could be killed.

The eagle has always mystified and fascinated us. His mastery of the skies no doubt is what captivates us the most about this majestic creature. The eagle is viewed as a spiritual messenger, certainly a symbol of truth and courage, and by some, even a god.

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Source: http://www.republicoflakotah.com/author/thunder-horse/
Also by Thunder horse: Out of Sight, Out of Mind