The Diné, or the Navajo Earth people, believe in the existence
of two types of people- the Holy people and the Earth people. The Holy people, analogous
to what we refer to as “god” or “gods”, are believed to be powerful. The Earth
people are kind of seen as responsible for the Earth and sustaining its peace
and balance. The number four and harmony with the elements are a very important
part of the Navajo beliefs. For example, four seasons, four directions, four
sacred mountains, etc. The Earth people were also taught by the Holy people to
always maintain harmony and balance with the elements such as Mother Earth or
Father Sky. The Diné also perform over fifty ceremonies for many different
purposes.
Navajo Cultural History and Legends
2002 Navajo Beliefs. Electronic document,
http://www.navajovalues.com/natani/navajovalues.htm
accessed April 14, 2014
Navajo Cultural History and Legends
2002 Navajo Beliefs. Electronic document,
I think the Navajo people have very simple and straightforward beliefs (in a good way). They believe in nature, in keeping peace with the Earth and sky and water and preserving the natural habitat, and I respect that a lot. All religions have traditions or rituals that others may not understand or connect to. I do not know specifically what rituals or ceremonies the Navajo people conduct but I presume they are sacred and meant as part of healing or showing respect to the Holy people. In many ways, their beliefs and the common religious beliefs in the modern world are very similar in that all believers believe in a god or deity of some sort and do things to please those who are thought to be in power.
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