The Narragansett tribe, indigenous to what is now Rhode Island, possesses a profound cultural heritage steeped in mythology and spiritual beliefs. This American mythology is not just a collection of ancient tales but a living tradition that preserves their identity, imparts wisdom, and provides a framework for understanding the world.
The Creation Myth: Moshup, The Creator
The creation myth of the Narragansett centers on the figure of Moshup, a giant and cultural hero who played a vital role in shaping the world. Moshup is said to have emerged from the sea, carrying boulders in his apron, which he used to create islands and shape the coastline of New England. The legend explains that Moshup created the land by dropping these rocks into the sea, forming the islands of Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, and others along the Atlantic coast.
This myth serves as a cultural explanation for the geographical features of the region and underscores the tribe’s deep connection to their land. The story of Moshup also includes moral lessons, as he is depicted as a protector of the people but also someone who could bring about destruction if disrespected. This duality reflects the tribe’s understanding of nature as both nurturing and formidable.
In addition to his role as a creator, Moshup is also a figure in other stories that convey moral teachings. For instance, in one tale, Moshup teaches the Narragansett people how to fish by using a giant net, a lesson in resourcefulness and sustainability. However, when the people become greedy and wasteful, Moshup becomes angry and leaves, warning them that they must respect the gifts of the earth. This story emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with nature, a recurring theme in Narragansett mythology.
Key Mythological Figures
Cautantowwit: The Great Spirit
Cautantowwit, or Kautantowit, is the supreme deity in Narragansett belief, representing the Great Spirit or Creator. Cautantowwit is often associated with the southwest, a direction considered sacred because it is the origin of the life-giving warm winds and the place where souls go after death. This connection to the southwest links Cautantowwit to the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth, a concept central to Narragansett spirituality.
Cautantowwit is not depicted as a personified deity but as an omnipresent force that governs the universe. In the Green Corn Ceremony, one of the most important annual rituals, offerings are made to Cautantowwit to ensure a bountiful harvest. This ceremony highlights the tribe’s dependence on the natural world and their belief in a higher power that controls the forces of nature.
Wetucks (Moshup): The Culture Hero
Wetucks, who shares characteristics with the creator Moshup, is another important figure in Narragansett mythology. Wetucks is depicted as a cultural hero who interacts with the people, teaching them important survival skills. One notable story involves Wetucks teaching the tribe how to use the land responsibly, such as the proper methods for hunting and fishing, as well as the importance of communal sharing.
Wetucks’ actions often serve as moral lessons. For example, in one story, Wetucks confronts a group of people who have been wasteful with their resources. He warns them that if they do not change their ways, they will suffer the consequences. This story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the necessity of living in balance with the environment.
Nikommo: The Benevolent Spirits
Nikommo are small, benevolent spirits believed to inhabit the forests. These spirits play a significant role in the spiritual life of the Narragansett people, acting as protectors and guides. The Nikommo are particularly honored during the Nikommo Feast, a celebration that takes place during the winter months. This feast is a time for giving thanks, and the tribe offers food and gifts to the Nikommo in exchange for their continued protection and blessings.
The belief in Nikommo reflects the tribe’s view of the natural world as alive with spiritual beings who must be respected and honored. The Nikommo are also seen as mediators between the human world and the spirit world, ensuring that the tribe maintains a harmonious relationship with the forces of nature.
Hobomock: The Spirit of Death
Hobomock, also known as Chepi, is the spirit of death and the underworld in Narragansett mythology. Hobomock is often depicted as a malevolent figure who brings disease, death, and misfortune. In some stories, Hobomock is a trickster, using deceit to lead people astray, while in others, he is a more straightforward embodiment of evil and chaos.
The figure of Hobomock highlights the duality present in Narragansett belief—just as there are benevolent spirits like Nikommo, there are also malevolent ones like Hobomock. This duality serves as a reminder of the constant balance between good and evil, order and chaos, and life and death. In some accounts, Hobomock’s presence is a warning to the Narragansett people to live moral and upright lives, as a means of avoiding his wrath.
The Structure of the Universe
The Sky World
In Narragansett cosmology, the Sky World is the realm of the gods and the source of all life. It is described as a place of light and warmth, where the Great Spirit Cautantowwit resides. The Sky World is also the origin of the winds and weather, which are crucial for the tribe’s agricultural practices.
The concept of the Sky World is not just physical but also spiritual. It represents the highest ideals of harmony, peace, and moral integrity. The Narragansett believe that the spirits of their ancestors reside in the Sky World, watching over them and guiding them in their daily lives. This belief reinforces the idea that life on earth is interconnected with the spiritual realm and that the actions of individuals have a direct impact on the balance of the universe.
The Earth
The Earth is seen as a living entity in Narragansett belief, a provider and nurturer of all forms of life. The tribe’s agricultural practices, such as the cultivation of corn, beans, and squash, known as the “Three Sisters,” are deeply connected to their spiritual beliefs. These crops are not just food sources but are also considered sacred gifts from the earth, given by Cautantowwit to sustain the people.
The Narragansett have a deep respect for the land, which is reflected in their sustainable farming practices. For example, they use companion planting techniques, where the Three Sisters are planted together to support each other’s growth. This method not only ensures a bountiful harvest but also symbolizes the importance of cooperation and community, values that are central to Narragansett life.
The Underworld
The Underworld, or Chepi’s domain, is the dark and dangerous counterpart to the Sky World. It is described as a place of shadows, inhabited by malevolent spirits like Hobomock. The Underworld is a realm of chaos and disorder, representing the antithesis of the harmonious Sky World.
The concept of the Underworld in Narragansett mythology is closely tied to the tribe’s beliefs about death and the afterlife. It is believed that those who do not live according to the tribe’s moral codes may find themselves trapped in the Underworld, facing eternal torment. This belief serves as a powerful incentive for the Narragansett to adhere to the values of their community and maintain a balanced relationship with the spiritual forces that govern the universe.
Mythological Themes and Beliefs
Harmony with Nature
One of the most prominent themes in Narragansett mythology is the emphasis on living in harmony with nature. The tribe’s belief system centers around the idea that all elements of the natural world—animals, plants, water, and the earth—possess spiritual significance and must be treated with deep respect. This belief is not just theoretical but is reflected in various aspects of their daily life and spiritual practices.
For instance, the Narragansett people engage in sustainable hunting practices that honor the spirits of the animals they hunt. After a successful hunt, they often leave offerings at the site to give thanks and ensure that the spirit of the animal will continue to provide abundance in the future. This practice demonstrates a reciprocal relationship with nature, where the tribe acknowledges the sacrifice of the animal and seeks to maintain balance with the natural world.
Another example of the tribe’s respect for nature is their practice of controlled burns, also known as cultural burning. The Narragansett use fire as a tool to manage the landscape, clear underbrush, and encourage the growth of certain plants, such as berries and medicinal herbs. This practice not only helps to prevent larger, more destructive wildfires but also enhances the health and productivity of the land. Cultural burning is a testament to the tribe’s deep ecological knowledge and their commitment to maintaining a harmonious relationship with their environment.
The Narragansett also have myths that highlight the consequences of disrupting the natural order. For example, in one story, a group of people overhunt and waste the resources provided by the land, leading to a period of famine and suffering. This tale serves as a warning about the dangers of greed and the importance of respecting the earth’s resources.
Spirituality and Rituals
Narragansett spirituality is deeply intertwined with their mythology and is expressed through a variety of rituals and ceremonies that connect the tribe to the spiritual world. These rituals are not only religious practices but also serve to reinforce the moral and social values of the community.
One of the central elements of Narragansett spirituality is the use of the drum in ceremonies. The drum is considered the heartbeat of the earth, and its rhythmic beating during rituals is believed to call upon the Great Spirit and other deities. The sound of the drum helps to create a spiritual atmosphere, grounding participants in their connection to the earth and the cosmos.
Another important ritual tool is the Talking Stick, used in council meetings and community gatherings. The Talking Stick is passed around the circle, and only the person holding the stick is allowed to speak. This practice ensures that everyone’s voice is heard and promotes respect and understanding within the group. The use of the Talking Stick reflects the tribe’s belief in the importance of community and collective decision-making.
Sweat lodges are another key aspect of Narragansett spirituality. These purification rituals involve participants entering a small, dome-shaped structure where they are exposed to intense heat and steam. The experience is both physically and spiritually cleansing, and it is believed to help individuals reconnect with the Creator and the natural world. Sweat lodges are often used before important ceremonies or during times of personal or communal crisis as a way to seek guidance and healing.
Cultural Practices Rooted in Mythology
The Powwow
The Powwow is one of the most significant cultural and spiritual events for the Narragansett people. It is a time when the tribe comes together to celebrate their heritage, honor their ancestors, and reinforce their connection to the land and the spiritual world. The Powwow includes dancing, drumming, singing, and the telling of traditional stories, all of which are deeply rooted in Narragansett mythology.
One of the central dances performed at the Powwow is the Sacred Circle Dance, which symbolizes the cyclical nature of life and the interconnectedness of all things. Dancers move in a clockwise direction around a central fire or drum, representing the movement of the sun and the passage of time. The Sacred Circle Dance is a powerful expression of the tribe’s belief in the importance of living in harmony with the natural world and the spiritual forces that govern it.
The Powwow also includes the Grand Entry, a ceremonial procession that marks the opening of the event. During the Grand Entry, participants, dressed in traditional regalia, enter the dance arena in a show of unity and cultural pride. This procession is often led by tribal elders and veterans, who are honored for their wisdom and service to the community. The Grand Entry is a reminder of the tribe’s enduring strength and resilience, as well as their commitment to preserving their cultural traditions.
The Green Corn Ceremony
The Green Corn Ceremony is an ancient and sacred ritual that marks the beginning of the corn harvest. This ceremony is deeply connected to the tribe’s agricultural practices and their reliance on the natural world for sustenance. The Green Corn Ceremony is a time of renewal, when the tribe gives thanks to Cautantowwit, the Great Spirit, for the earth’s bounty and prays for continued abundance in the coming year.
The ceremony involves feasting, dancing, and the offering of the first ears of corn to the spirits. It is a time for the community to come together, share in the harvest, and strengthen their bonds with one another and the spiritual world. The Green Corn Ceremony is also a time for purification, as participants cleanse themselves of past wrongs and prepare for the new cycle of life.
One of the key elements of the Green Corn Ceremony is the dance of the Corn Maidens, young women who represent the fertility of the earth and the continuation of life. The Corn Maidens are adorned with corn husks and other natural materials, symbolizing their connection to the earth and the crops. Their dance is both a celebration of the harvest and a prayer for the renewal of life.
Narragansett Folklore and Legends
Oral Tradition and Storytelling
Storytelling is a vital aspect of Narragansett culture and serves as the primary means of preserving myths, history, and cultural knowledge. Narragansett folklore is rich with tales that explain natural phenomena, teach moral lessons, and reinforce the tribe’s spiritual beliefs. These stories are passed down through generations, often during the winter months when the community gathers around the fire to share their oral traditions.
One popular legend is the story of the Great Flood, in which the world is covered in water due to the actions of a powerful spirit. The flood serves as a punishment for humanity’s arrogance and a reminder of the need to live in harmony with the natural world. This story has parallels with flood myths found in other cultures, reflecting a universal theme of destruction and renewal.
Another well-known tale involves the trickster figure Rabbit, who wishes for snow to cover his tracks and escape his enemies. However, his wish backfires when he becomes trapped in the snow, unable to move. This story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of deceit and the importance of being careful what you wish for. The Rabbit story also highlights the Narragansett’s close observation of the natural world and their understanding of the seasons and animal behavior.
Legends of the Thunder Beings
The Thunder Beings, or Neimpaûog, are powerful spirits associated with storms and lightning. In Narragansett mythology, they are often depicted as formidable forces that can bring both destruction and renewal. Thunderstorms are seen as manifestations of the Thunder Beings’ power, and the tribe believes that these spirits can communicate with humans through the sound of thunder and the flash of lightning.
In some stories, the Thunder Beings are depicted as protectors of the people, using their power to drive away evil spirits and purify the land. In other tales, they are seen as temperamental beings who must be respected and appeased to avoid their wrath. The Thunder Beings are also believed to be responsible for bringing rain, which is essential for the growth of crops. As such, they are honored in rituals and prayers, particularly during times of drought.
In modern times, some Narragansett storytellers have begun to reframe the Thunder Beings as Thunderbirds, similar to those found in other Indigenous cultures. This adaptation allows the myths to remain relevant and accessible to younger generations, while still preserving the core elements of the tribe’s spiritual beliefs.
In recent years, there has been a concerted effort to revitalize and preserve Narragansett culture, including their language, rituals, and mythology. These efforts are driven by a desire to ensure that the tribe’s rich heritage is passed down to future generations and that the spiritual and cultural practices that have sustained the Narragansett people for centuries continue to thrive.
Language programs, such as the Narragansett Language Project, have been established to revive the Narragansett language, which is a critical component of the tribe’s identity and cultural expression. The language is being taught to children and adults through classes, workshops, and community events, with the goal of making it a living language once again.
Cultural festivals, such as the annual Narragansett Indian Powwow, play a crucial role in the preservation of traditional practices and the sharing of cultural knowledge. These events provide an opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate their heritage, and educate others about their history and traditions.
Educational initiatives, including partnerships with local schools and universities, aim to raise awareness of Narragansett history and culture among both Native and non-Native communities. These programs often include presentations, exhibitions, and the sharing of traditional stories, helping to ensure that the tribe’s mythology and cultural practices are not forgotten.
Today, Narragansett mythology continues to play a crucial role in the tribe’s cultural identity. It provides a sense of continuity with the past, grounding modern Narragansetts in their ancestral heritage while also offering spiritual guidance in contemporary life. As the tribe navigates the challenges of the modern world, their mythology remains a source of strength, resilience, and inspiration.
