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In the world of the Hopi all things have both a
Spiritual and Physical form which they believe provides balance.
Kachinas represent the spiritual aspect of this natural balance.
This belief extends to a wide and varied range of Kachina
Spirits ranging from local game to even death itself. In the
Kachina Society it is the male members of the Hopi that dress in
costumes and masks to portray the Kachina spirits. Through
their costumes and actions these men give shape and substance to the
Kachina which they are portraying. These men are
believed to be invested by the specific Kachina portrayed.
The Kachina season begins in late December with the Soyal as
several Kachinas wake and emerge from the Kivas. (Kivas are
underground ceremonial rooms which are believed to provide entry
from and to the Underworld). These Kachinas perform rites
which improves the bonds and well being of the Hopi people
and their villages before returning to their Kivas.
As the early or "false" spring approaches in
February the Powamu Ceremony is held. This ceremony and its'
Kachinas, ready the world for a new season of planting and
growth. Great numbers of Kachinas emerge from the kivas
escorted by Guards and Warriors. Trailing them are the Clowns with
their constant irreverent behavior. This ceremony also represents
the time when children are initiated into the Kachina cult.
The Niman ceremony, which is held in midsummer, represents the end
of the Kachina season. The Kachinas dance in the plaza
carrying stalks of corn and bearing gifts for the children. This is
a time of thanks and appreciation for the harvest which the
Kachinas helped provide as well as a time to bid them farewell.
With a final ceremony the Kachinas are sent off to their
mountain homes (the San Francisco Peaks) to await the renewed
cycle of the coming year.
Text on this page is copyright and courtesy of
IndianTraders.com
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