The Ojibwe People The religion of the Ojibwe is centered on the belief in a single creative force but according to the Minnesota Historical Society the religion "also incorporated a large pantheon of spirits who played specific roles in the universe ." These different spirits took on different roles, some for protection of Ojibwe hunters, protection from disease, and during battle. Each person had a personal guardian spirit which was one of the most important. Their guardian spirit would come to them in a dream or vision and could be called upon for protection and guidance. The tribe also had spiritual leaders, feared and respected because of their supernatural powers that could be used for good or evil. The dreams were related to religion and spirit guides. The natives believed that dreams had great meaning and that they would provide visions of their future and how to live their lives. The Ojibwe practiced annual fasts to renew their outlook on life and reflect. Everyculture.com The culture had strong values built on generosity, honesty, character and wisdom, all instilled in the youngest of the tribe through education, religion, storytelling , and above all by example. Ojibwe Lifestyles Typically, family groups living together range from 20 to 50 people, related by blood or marriage. The relationship between parents, children and grandparents was affectionate. In Ojibwe culture, brothers and sisters were respectful of one another, and boys had special relationships with their mothers' brothers, who would teach them and act as counselors, according to the Milwaukee Public Museum's website. Everyculture.com stated that boys and girls would be cared for until age seven... middle of paper... interesting to learn that the names of so many Midwestern towns and lakes were based on Native American words and traditions,” the lake of flames” for Lake Du Flambeau. Closer to home, Lake Winnebago takes its name from the tribe that lived nearby, “the Dirty Water People.” The religion of the Ojibwe is also very interesting. Vision quest and guardian spirit are all very interesting concepts practiced by the Ojibwe that would seem foreign to any other culture, but deserve further research to understand. Unfortunately, the taking of land and forcing Native people onto reservations is something most of the United States is familiar with. It is an excellent opportunity for a deeper understanding of local traditions and nomenclature for those living in the Midwest to learn about the Native American tribes closest to their home.
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