Native American (Navajo) Ancient Path to Peace in a World of Conflict

Introduction to Peaceful Origins

The speaker discusses the origins of the Navajo people, explaining that all Navajo holy figures, or “holy people,” were beings of peace. According to traditional teachings, the Navajo people arrived on Earth from a place of peace, and upon returning to the holy people after life, they are expected to embody peace.

Historical Timeline and Generational Calculation

The Navajo people traditionally count generations in cycles of twelve years, which dates their history to approximately 19 generations ago when they first arrived in the area. At that time, many different groups occupied the region, including the cliff-dwelling and Pueblo communities. However, these communities were often in conflict, lacking peace among themselves. In contrast, the Navajo people, referred to as “Diné,” maintained a peaceful existence.

The Role of Holy Figures in Navajo Peace Teachings

The Diné culture places a strong emphasis on peace, as reflected in the teachings and names of their holy figures. Their supreme being, or the “Speaker of Peace,” embodies the principal force of peace among the Navajo. As they believe, to live in harmony with the holy people, the Navajo must lead peaceful lives, promoting peace in thought, heart, and action.

Sacred Markings and Peaceful Conduct

The speaker describes sacred markings on the hands, feet, and head that symbolize the peace bestowed upon the Navajo by the holy people. These markings signify that the Navajo should never use their hands or feet to harm family members, including children, spouses, or relatives. For disciplining children, ceremonies are held using specific ritual items instead of physical punishment.

Encounters with Other Peoples and Influence on the Region

Throughout history, the peaceful approach of the Navajo influenced surrounding groups in the Southwest. Many groups, including the cliff-dwellers, were impacted by Navajo teachings and became peaceful. This influence led to generations of peace in the region.

Contact with Spanish Colonizers

The Navajo oral history records that the Diné first encountered Spanish explorers around 1520–1530 near the Rio Grande, in present-day Texas. They named these new arrivals “Nakai,” meaning “the walk-around people,” based on the Spaniards’ tendency to march around. Initially, the Navajo observed the Spaniards from a distance, hearing about their slave-taking and violent actions against other groups with whom the Diné had peaceful relations.

In approximately 1550, another Spanish expedition arrived, led by an individual named Perez. The Spanish force attacked a Pueblo village, resulting in the massacre of over 300 inhabitants. In response, some refugees fled northward, where they were taken in by the Navajo. The refugees integrated into Navajo society, creating new clan affiliations, including the Zuni Clan.

Formation of the “Navajo” Name

To discourage the Spanish settlers, the Navajo engaged in non-violent raids on livestock and temporary captures of women and children, hoping these actions would prompt the settlers to leave. When the Spaniards sought information about the raiders, they were told that these people were “Apachu,” a name used by neighboring Ute and Pueblo peoples. This term was later adapted by the Spanish, leading to the term “Navajo.”

Integration of Spanish Settlers and the Creation of Clans

Over time, captured Spanish settlers were adopted into Navajo society rather than enslaved. They married into Navajo clans, leading to the establishment of a “Spaniard Clan.” This clan became fully integrated into the peaceful society of the Diné.

Navajo Legacy of Peace

The Navajo teachings emphasize the importance of maintaining peace throughout one’s life. When individuals pass on and return to the holy people, they are expected to do so as beings of peace. This path of peace remains central to Navajo cultural values, ensuring continuity and harmony with their origins and teachings.