If you have ever wondered what the Cherokee Indians were
like, then you are not alone. There are many people that enjoy learning the
history of the Indian tribes, especially the Cherokee Indians. Their traditions
and culture is very exciting. Their beliefs are some that many people love to
read about and study.
The Cherokee Indians religion was very unique. They lived each month by the moon
system. Every month’s new moon represented something different for the people.
The moon in January represented a time for personal and ritual observance, a
time for personal purification. Families prepared for the new season ahead and
the mid-winter dance took place. Other months symbolized other things such as
March’s new planting season or July’s first foods being ready.
The Cherokee Indians also cherished fire. It was not only sacred to them, but a
living memorial. It was considered a great gift to them and separated them from
the animals. This part of their culture was very important, as the Cherokee
believed that fire has been with us since the beginning of time and it makes
civilization possible. The Cherokee only used oak to light the fires and only
the priests could light them. Their culture believed that if any one other than
the priest lit the fire, bad luck would follow.
Another important aspect of the Cherokee culture is the medicinal part of it.
The Cherokee believed that they were gifted by the creator to know which herbs
to gather and preserve for medicinal purposes. If you talk to a native Cherokee
elder today, they may still remember some of the recipes that their ancestors
use for curing illnesses. Some of the common herbs that the Cherokees would use
were Wild Cherry, for measles and colds, and Boneset for pneumonia. Ratbane was
a common herb that they used to try to cure typhoid disease.
The Cherokee culture is known for its fables and story telling. Most stories had
to do with the Earth or the sun. The fables usually had something to do with
nature and how something was created. The Cherokee culture is very captivating.
Their history is worth knowing.
