by Katarzyna Nowocin-Kowalczyk
December 15th, 2023
story from the book Secrets of California Deserts
In the anthropomorphic world of the American Indians of the west coast of North America, the Raven is an important and prestigious figure. It symbolizes change, metamorphosis, transformation, as well as creation. The figure of the Raven is woven into the patterns of Native American baskets throughout Southern California.
The nature of the Raven is complex. He can be mischievous and curious, but most of all, he is intelligent and wise. He is also cunning. And it is because of this trait that many consider him a fraud. However, Raven's actions often benefit people.
The Raven is the bearer of great power and magic. It represents supernatural beings. He is seen as a messenger of gods and spirits and a harbinger of news from the Universe. And these messages are hidden in his wings and only reach those who are worth it. In many Native American tribes, shamans and holy men invoke the Raven in their rituals to get a clear message on various matters. After all, what the human eye sees is not necessarily real.
In many legends, it is the Raven who created the earth, gave people water, fire and light in the form of stars, moon and sun. His knowledge, intelligence and cunning helped him in this. And although in different Indian tribes, these stories differ in some details, the main message remains the same—the Raven gave light to the people.
The raven gave people treasures that are essential to the survival of humanity, but he paid for it with his suffering. While doing this work, his feathers were burned black, his claws dried up, and his voice became hoarse.
So, when you meet a Raven in the desert or hear its raspy voice, it is as if you met a messenger who has just brought you a message from your higher self. The question is whether you can properly decode this message.
'Raven' in the language of the Cahuilla Indians: Ahl'what
©CatherineNK
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A Tale Of The Raven And The Creation Of The World desert stories from the book
Secrets of California Deserts
Mojave, Colorado, Great Basin with the cultural expert’s eye
author: Katarzyna Nowocin-Kowalczyk
translation: Elizabeth Kanski
photos: Katarzyna Nowocin-Kowalczyk
👉 The book is available on Amazon in hardcover and paperback;
in a version with color or black-and-white photos;
in Polish, English, and Spanish
A Tale Of The Raven And The Creation Of The World ; read in Polish by the author
I love these types of stories.
Thank you for this story, Catherine.
Nice story