The Universe Of The Ojibwe Anishinaabeg, an illustrated glossary by Zhaawano Giizhik*

The Universe of The Ojibwe Anishinaabeg by Zhaawano Giizhik - 2014
E-BANGISHIMOG, also named Ningaabii`anong or Ningaabii’ani-noodin, is the Spirit Of
the West. Bangishimog, the land in the west where at the end of the day Grandfather
Sun sinks behind the horizon, is ruled by E-bangishimog, or Ningaabii`ani-noodin, the
mighty West wind and the Father of all Winds; it is also the abode of E-bangishimog’s
eldest son Majiikiwis who is chief of the Grizzly bear nation, and Ningaabii-anang, the
star that sinks in the waters (the Evening Star). Bangishimog reminds the Anishinaabeg
by the swiftness of the day how short life really is, as the red sky of sundown reminds
them of human destiny. To see the sunrise and behold the sunset is a joy, and to know
life from youth to old age is considered a sacred gift. According to tradition it was also
here, on an island in the west, that two of E-bangishimog's illegitimate sons, half
anishinaabe (human)-half manidoo(spirit) WIINABOZHO and his brother MA'IINGAN
(wolf), found their last resting place, and a giant giizhikaatig (northern white cedar tree)
is said to still grow from Wiinabozho's head...
Click on image
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The above image shows a detail of "Women's Healing Journey" acrylic on canvas by Anishinaabe
artist Simone McLeod (Aki-egwaniizid). Simone McLeod uses her art for healing purposes,
addressing the topic of cultural and social oppression on - and the ongoing sexual and mental
abuse of women and children within - Native (First Nation) communities. The painting depicts
three generations of women against the background of Bangishimog, the land in the west, the
abode of the Grizzly Bear Nation and the deceased who arrive there via jiibay-miikana, the Path of
Souls. Here, at the end of each day, Mishoomis Giizis (Grandfather Sun) sinks behind the horizon,
as does, at the end of each night, the Evening Star. Ningaabii-anang, the Evening Star, also called
"Star Sinking In Waters" or "Women's Star", is a powerful aadizokaan (grandfather), a wise
medicine man and patron of all women, teaching healing and the need for moderation and
patience. It is to him and Grandfather Sun sinking behind the western hills and to the spirits of the
ancestors and the spirit of the Bear that the women turn to in search for healing and wisdom and
strength.
The Universe of The Ojibwe Anishinaabeg by Zhaawano Giizhik - 2014
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