Navajo

Definition

The Navajo, also known as the Diné, are a Native American tribe indigenous to the Southwestern United States. They are the largest federally recognized tribe in the United States, with a rich cultural heritage and a deep connection to the land they have inhabited for centuries. The Navajo philosophy and worldview are an integral part of the broader field of Indigenous Philosophy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Navajo language, known as Diné Bizaad, is a member of the Athabaskan language family and is spoken by over 170,000 people.
2. The Navajo creation story, known as the Diné Bahane', describes the emergence of the Navajo people from the underworld and their subsequent journey to the present world.
3. Hózhó, the Navajo concept of harmony and balance, is a fundamental principle that guides Navajo philosophy, spirituality, and daily life.
4. The Navajo have a deep respect for the natural world and believe in the interconnectedness of all living beings, which is reflected in their traditional practices and beliefs.
5. The Navajo have a rich oral tradition, with stories, songs, and teachings passed down through generations, shaping their worldview and cultural identity.

Review Questions

• Explain the significance of the Navajo creation story and its influence on their philosophical and spiritual beliefs.
  • The Navajo creation story, the Diné Bahane', is a foundational narrative that shapes the Navajo worldview and philosophy. This story describes the emergence of the Navajo people from the underworld and their subsequent journey to the present world. It establishes the Navajo's deep connection to the land, their belief in the interconnectedness of all living beings, and the importance of maintaining harmony and balance (Hózhó) in all aspects of life. The creation story is central to Navajo spirituality and serves as a guiding principle for their traditional practices and beliefs.
• Analyze the concept of Hózhó and its role in Navajo philosophy and daily life.
  • Hózhó is a central concept in Navajo philosophy that encompasses harmony, balance, and beauty in all aspects of life. It represents the Navajo's belief in the interdependence of all living beings and the importance of maintaining a state of equilibrium. Hózhó guides the Navajo's interactions with the natural world, their relationships with others, and their approach to daily tasks and challenges. It is a holistic philosophy that emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with one's surroundings and cultivating a sense of well-being and fulfillment. The Navajo's adherence to the principles of Hózhó shapes their cultural identity, spiritual practices, and overall worldview.
• Evaluate the Navajo's relationship with the natural world and how it informs their philosophical and spiritual beliefs.
  • The Navajo have a profound respect and reverence for the natural world, which is deeply rooted in their philosophical and spiritual beliefs. They view themselves as an integral part of the natural order, rather than separate from or superior to it. This perspective is reflected in their creation story, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living beings. The Navajo's reverence for the land, water, and other natural resources shapes their traditional practices, such as their use of medicinal plants and their approach to resource management. Their belief in the sacredness of the natural world also informs their spiritual rituals and ceremonies, which often involve the use of natural elements like sand, pollen, and sacred plants. This deep connection to the land and its resources is a fundamental aspect of Navajo philosophy and a key factor in shaping their cultural identity and worldview.

Related terms

Diné: The self-designation of the Navajo people, meaning 'the people' in the Navajo language.

Hózhó: A central concept in Navajo philosophy that encompasses harmony, balance, and beauty in all aspects of life.

Navajo Creation Story: The traditional narrative that explains the origins and worldview of the Navajo people.