The Story of the Kokopelli
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| retold by Shooshie
The Kokopelli in this picture is the artistry of the Hopi Indians from Hotevilla, Arizona, which is near the site where the Hopi believe they entered this world long, long ago. On the homeland which surrounds Hotevilla, one can find the oldest inhabited villages in North America. The design you see in the picture is made of silver, and is the emblem on a keyring. The kokopelli is a spirit the Hopi celebrate in fertility dances.
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| Kokopelli with Flute |
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Migration Legend |
| In legends, upon arriving in the current world the people began their migrations as instructed by Masaw, the 4th world deity who allowed them to enter. With them travelled two humpbacked locust people: the máhu (insect with the power of warmth). On a mountain top, these máhus asked an eagle if the people could live here. The eagle assented, but only after two tests. The eagle thrust an arrow up to their eyes, almost stabbing them. The máhus did not blink. |
"Very good, but I have a test which you may not pass," said the eagle. He pulled out a bow and shot a máhu through the body with an arrow. The máhu brought out his flute and began to play a sweet melody. His body healed. The eagle shot the second máhu, and both máhus played beautiful music and healed themselves. The eagle, impressed with their powers, allowed them to stay. The Hopi named the hump-backed spirits Kokopelli.
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| Fertilizing Earth |
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| Crops and Children |
Kokopelli carry seeds in their hump, and walk over Earth Mother scattering seeds as they go. After scattering seeds, they play their ancient songs, resonating with the Corn Mother and other spirits, encouraging them to grow anew. Each spring, the Kokopelli join the other kachinas (spirits) in the village to dance for the crops. Sometimes depicted with a penis, they stand for fertility in people, too. A kokopelli is beloved, for it brings new children, new crops, and the continuance of life.
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