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I have a question about native american culture and the cross?
I always thought that in Native American Culture that the Christian Cross represented the broken circle of the Native Americans. In other words, when the Christians tried to convert them over to Christianity, the cross became a symbol of that conversion...............................A broken people a broken circle. A broken circle is represented by a cross. Does anyone have any ideas on this. I really want to know. Since having someone explain this to me in a class that I was taking, taught by a wonderful Native American teacher, I have not worn a cross at all. I do not believe in Making People believe what other's want them too.........or make them "forsake" their own beliefs...........the circle is a very important symbol to the Native American's. Thanks for any true help in figuring this out.
2 Answers
- ChrissyLv 77 years ago
I was not aware of the symbolism of the cross for the Native American people. As a Christian, my belief is of course rooted in Christianity and the cross for me represents Christ's crucifixion. But I know of people who wear a cross as fashion or even a modified religous belief. You will even see crosses used in voodoo and other ritualistic exercises. I assumed the cross for Native Americans was a sign of their Christian beliefs because many of them have converted to Christianity. I have a 1/4 Native American ancestry and my Native American ancestors were all very faithful Christians back as far as I can find. Sorry I can't help more.
- ?Lv 77 years ago
Never heard that one before. Which tribe was this teacher a citizen of? If you are Christian, feel free to wear a cross. We don't mind. It isn't offensive in and of itself.
@chrissy.....Really? You are 1/4 indian? Which tribe are you a citizen of? Never heard of anyone who was 1/4 who WASN'T enrolled. It's unheard of. And if it's true, your ancestors weren't Christian, but only forcibly baptized in the residential schools we were forced to attend. After all, native americans didn't have freedom of religion until 1978.
Source(s): Navajo
