As part of Native American culture, there is a common theme of the journey. It can be a journey of the individual, a tribal clan or tribe. The World is observed in having four distinct directions, though the eyes of its indigenous peoples. From these four directions, comes the four winds, representing the passage of time. The aspect of time within tribal culture moves somewhat differently than in non-tribal culture. A day is broken into four parts, as is the year into seasons, and the passage of years is marked by notable chefs, families, or by generations. Where non-tribal culture thinks within their own life and that of their children, tribes are known to plan for seven generations.
Symbolism is used to depict the individual meanings of each of the Four Directions. There are 567 tribes Federally recognized Native American Tribes, 222 Alaskan tribal villages, and over 600 Canadian First Nations in North America. These beliefs and traditions, specific details regarding colors associated with directions vary dependent upon the indigenous culture.
West (Black)
To the west, the sunsets, and the day ends. For this reason, the west signifies the end of life. As Black Elk says, “… toward the setting sun of his life.” The great Thunderbird lives in the west and sends thunder and rain from its direction. For this reason, the west is also the source of water: rain, lakes, streams, and rivers. Nothing can live without water, so the west is vital.
North (Red)
North brings the cold, harsh winds of the winter season. These winds are cleansing. They cause the leaves to fall and the earth to rest under a blanket of snow. If someone has the ability to face these winds like the buffalo with its head into the storm, they have learned patience and endurance. Generally, this direction stands for hardships and discomfort. Therefore, the north represents the trials people must endure and the cleansing they must undergo.
East (Yellow)
The direction from which the sun comes. Light dawns in the morning and spreads over the earth. This is the beginning of a new day. It is also the beginning of understanding because light helps us see things the way they are. On a deeper level, the east stands for wisdom assisting people to live good lives. Traditional people rise in the morning to pray to face the dawn, asking God for wisdom and understanding.
South (White)
Because the southern sky is when the sun is at its highest, this direction stands for warmth and growing. The sun’s rays are powerful in drawing life from the earth. It is said that the life of all things comes from the south.
Also, warm and pleasant winds come from the south. When people pass into the spirit world, they travel the Milky Way’s path back to the south — returning from where they came.
Four Direction Additions / Variations
**NOTE: When the Lakota pray with the Sacred Pipe, they add two other directions: Sky and Earth.
The Great Spirit — Wakȟáŋ Tȟáŋka — dwells high above like an eagle in the sky; this direction’s color is blue.
Earth is our Mother and Grandmother from whom we receive our nourishment. The color of this direction is green for all growing things.**
Credit on Four Direction Descriptions: Lakota Life by Ron Zeilinger and Saint Joseph Indian School
