The Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Prayer, also known as the Words That Come Before All Else, is a profound expression of gratitude and interconnectedness with the natural world. This ancient prayer, passed down through generations, reflects the deep respect and understanding the Haudenosaunee people have for the environment and the delicate balance of life. It serves as a powerful reminder of our responsibility to live in harmony with all living things. This is a Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Prayer.
This particular version of the Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Prayer was confirmed as accurate by a woman who, at the time of the translation, held the esteemed position of hereditary Grandmother of the Turtle Clan within the Cornplanter Tribe of the Seneca Nation of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. While she has since passed on, her confirmation lends significant weight to the authenticity and cultural significance of this translation. Family members remember the original prayer.
Historically, this prayer was recited by the Grandmother of the Turtle Clan during the "Nut Festival," a celebration held in late autumn after the gathering of nuts and other provisions for the winter months. This festival was a time for communal feasting and reaffirming the bond between the people and the natural world. The prayer served as a central element, setting the tone for the celebration and expressing gratitude for the bounty of the Earth.
The prayer itself is structured as a series of greetings and expressions of thanks directed towards specific elements of the natural world. Each section acknowledges the unique role and contribution of that element to the overall well-being of the community and the ecosystem. The recurring phrase "Now our minds are one" signifies a collective agreement and shared understanding of the importance of each element.
Let’s explore the individual sections of this beautiful and meaningful prayer:
(Greet the People)
The prayer begins by acknowledging the gathering of the people and recognizing the cyclical nature of life. It emphasizes the duty to live in balance and harmony with each other and all living things. This initial greeting serves to unite the community and set the intention for the prayer: a collective expression of gratitude. It emphasizes the importance of community and mindful living.
(Give thanks to the Earth Mother)
The Earth Mother, the foundation of all life, is the next recipient of gratitude. The prayer acknowledges her role in providing everything needed for sustenance and support. Her care, unwavering since the beginning of time, is recognized with deep appreciation. This section highlights the interconnectedness between humanity and the land.
(Give thanks to the Waters)
Water, the lifeblood of the planet, is celebrated for its life-giving properties. The prayer recognizes the power and versatility of water, from waterfalls and rain to mists and oceans. It acknowledges water’s ability to quench thirst and provide strength. The "spirit of water" is honored with greetings and thanks.
(Give thanks to the Fish)
The fish, inhabitants of the water, are thanked for their role in cleansing and purifying the water. They are also acknowledged as a source of food. This section recognizes the importance of maintaining clean and healthy waterways and the vital role fish play in the ecosystem. The Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Prayer remembers all.
(Give thanks to the Plants)
The vast fields of plant life are recognized for their abundance and their ability to sustain countless life forms. The prayer expresses gratitude for their many wonders and looks forward to their continued presence for generations to come. The sheer scale and importance of plant life are emphasized.
(Give thanks to the Food Plants)
Specific gratitude is offered to the food plants that are harvested from the garden. Grains, vegetables, beans, and berries are acknowledged for their vital role in human survival since the beginning of time. The prayer also recognizes that other living things draw strength from these plants.
(Give thanks to the Medicine Herbs)
The healing power of medicinal herbs is celebrated, acknowledging their role in alleviating sickness. The prayer expresses appreciation for those who possess the knowledge to use these plants effectively. This section highlights the importance of traditional knowledge and the healing properties of nature.
(Give thanks to the Animals)
The animal kingdom is acknowledged for its ability to teach and for its presence in both human settlements and the deep forests. The prayer expresses hope for the continued existence of animals and recognizes their intrinsic value.
(Give thanks to the Trees)
Trees, essential components of the environment, are thanked for their shelter, shade, fruit, beauty, and other useful qualities. The prayer notes that trees are often used as symbols of peace and strength in many cultures. Each tree family has unique instructions and uses.
(Give thanks to the Birds)
The birds, with their beautiful songs and ability to move freely through the air, are thanked for reminding us to appreciate life. The eagle, their leader, is also recognized. The prayer extends joyful greetings and thanks to all birds, from the smallest to the largest.
(Give thanks to the Four Winds)
The powerful forces of the Four Winds are acknowledged for their role in refreshing and purifying the air we breathe and bringing about the changing seasons. They are seen as messengers from the four directions, bringing strength and guidance.
(Give thanks to the Thunder Beings)
The Thunder Beings, residing in the west, are thanked for bringing the life-renewing water through lightning and thunder. The prayer offers greetings and thanks to these powerful forces of nature.
(Give thanks to the Sun)
The Sun, our eldest brother, is recognized as the source of all fire and light. His daily journey across the sky is acknowledged with gratitude. The sun’s unwavering presence is essential for all life.
(Give thanks to Grandmother Moon)
The Moon, the leader of women and governor of the ocean tides, is thanked for lighting the night sky and overseeing the arrival of children on Earth. Her changing phases are recognized as a measure of time. This is a Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Prayer.
(Give thanks to the Stars)
The stars, spread across the sky like jewelry, are thanked for helping the Moon light the darkness, bringing dew to the gardens, and guiding travelers at night. Their beauty and navigational assistance are appreciated.
(Give thanks to the Enlightened Teachers)
The enlightened teachers throughout history are thanked for reminding humanity of the importance of living in harmony. Their guidance and wisdom are essential for maintaining balance in the world.
(Give thanks to the Creator)
Finally, the prayer turns to the Creator, or Great Spirit, expressing gratitude for the gifts of Creation. Everything needed for a good life is acknowledged as a gift from the Earth. The prayer concludes with the choicest words of greetings and thanks to the Creator.
(Closing Words)
The prayer concludes by acknowledging that it may not have been possible to name everything deserving of gratitude. It encourages individuals to offer their own greetings and thanks in their own way. The final statement, "Now our minds are one," reinforces the collective unity and shared understanding of gratitude.
The Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Prayer is more than just a recitation; it is a living tradition that embodies a profound respect for the natural world and a commitment to living in harmony with all living things. It serves as a timeless reminder of the interconnectedness of life and the importance of gratitude.