Algonquin People And The Myth Of The Medicine Woman In The Moon

A. Sutherland – MessageToEagle.com – The Algonquin people were the widespread Native American nation when French and English settlers arrived in North America. In those days, they inhabited most of what is now Canada south of Hudson Bay between the Rockies and the Atlantic Ocean, with many different tribes united by a common language. Legends of the Algonquian peoples are truly fascinating and they often serve as reminders how to proceed in our lives.

We have previously learned that Gluskap was considered the protector of humankind among the Algonquin people. Gluskap had to defeat evil sorcerers and was a mythic hero who taught the Indians all that they know – everything from the names of the stars to how to hunt and fish – and is portrayed in most stories as a wise man.

Another intriguing Algonquin legend is that of the Medicine Woman in the Moon. The story teaches us to appreciate and protect our knowledge, and to understand that the answers to some questions may take a long time to be revealed.

According to the legend, the Medicine Woman was very wise and skilled. She could cure many illnesses and her powers were admired and respected among her people and surrounding tribes.

When she was unable to treat an illness she retreated into the forest to a sacred place, where she drew a circle of life. She fasted, meditated, and prayed to the Great Spirit seeking answers.

One day, while sitting in the forest seeking answers to her troubles, she suddenly realized that she did not know when the world was going to end. Determined to find the answer, she withdrew to meditate and pray, as usual. In time, the Great Spirit sent a Manitou, a spirit, in Algonquian tradition to tell her that she sought an answer to a question too dangerous for humans to know.

The Manitou delivered the message and departed. The Medicine Woman got up to leave but, realizing the Great Spirit heard her, she decided to persevere and re-ask the question. Again, the Great Spirit instructed the Manitou: “Tell her that she must hide from other people and that I will tell her in my time.”

After the Manitou delivered that message, the Medicine Woman decided to locate herself on the Moon. And you can see her there to this day. She sits before a fire, weaving a headband, her corn meal cooking. Behind her is her walking stick; her cat combs her hair.

The Algonquin traditional story of the Medicine Woman in the Moon is an ancient, powerful parable with two timeless lessons

For one thing, be careful what you ask for. It may not come in a form you expect. The second lesson teaches to appreciate and protect what you already know, because it must last you throughout the ages.

Written by – A. Sutherland  – MessageToEagle.com Senior Staff Writer

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