Christ and Culture: Totem Pole

ORIGINS: The Totem Pole was first started by the American First Nation Tribes that settled in the northwest part of Canada and what is now Alaska. Almost all of these tribes came here across the Bering Straight and are genetically related. In their culture the pole with its totems represents the various Spirits who are the protectors of the tribe and with whom the tribe has special relationships.That is why the totems differ per tribe. It is also why where was always at least One totem pole in every village, usually in whatever large gathering place they had. The Totem pole is the 'heart' of the tribe's ceremonies and rituals.

SIGNIFICANCE: The totem carvings tell a story, revealed only ifone knows the meaning assigned to various animals, fish, birds and designs and where they are placed on the pole. There were a number of reasons why a particular figure or design was chosen by a clan. The connection between the clan and the various figures carved into the pole may have been as a result a special gift from the animal, fish or bird spirits. Or, there may have been a recent encounter with that figure.Some clans claimed to be descended from certain totem figures.

USED IN CULTURE: Many indigenous cultures felt that different animals had different powers and abilities as well as had different medicine that they could offer to humans. They were very much respected and most cultures felt that they were also messengers from the Great Spirit or the Great Mystery. Some cultures worshiped certain animals and some just accepted them as equals. The totem pole was a reflection of their beliefs and some could tell a story or legend of how that particular tribe was helped by different animals. They could be arranged in such a way on the particular totem pole as a reflection of their power and or level of medicine with the more powerful one at the top. Some cultures felt as well that some animals could act as spirit guides that could offer them guidance throughout their lives .In order to make a connection to your particular "Spirit Animal" or spirit guide , one would spend a period of time out in nature alone for up to four days. This was referred to as a "Vision Quest" and your particular spirit animal would be revealed to you either in a vision or literally. This was presided over by the Shaman or Holy man of the tribe. They would keep a close eye on you and offer an interpretation of your experience when it was completed and depending on which animal you encountered they would interpret what that meant to you and what bearing it had on your life.