SPIRITUAL BELIEFS OF THE CHEROKEE
THE WAY OF THE CIRCLE
The “Way of the Circle�?has been passed down from generation to generation and is represented in all the
Cherokee stories, myths and legends and other forms of teaching.
When you arise each morning, give thanks to the Creator, to the four sacred directions, to Mother Earth and
Father Sky and all your relations.
Remember that all things are connected.
All things have a purpose.
Honor others by treating them with kindness; always assume a guest is tired, cold or hungry. Provide them with
the best of what you have to offer.
If you have more than what you need, then give the excess to another who is in need.
Your word is your honor, do not break your word unless permission is granted by those you promise something
to.
Always seek harmony and balance in all things.
Share with others.
Practice silence and patience.
Practice modesty in all things; boasting and loud behavior is not acceptable.
Always ask permission and give thanks for all received.
Always show respect and be aware of all things around you.
Do not stare at others, drop your eyes as a sign of respect, especially in the presence of elders, teachers or
honored persons.
Always greet a friend in passing.
Never criticize or talk about anyone in a harmful way.
Never touch something that belongs to another without permission.
Always respect the privacy of others.
Never interrupt someone talking, it shows lack of patience, control and respect.
Listen with your heart.
Always remember that a smile is sacred.
Live each day as it comes.
Neither kill nor harbor angry thoughts.
Do what needs to be done now, not later.
CODE OF RIGHT RELATIONSHIP
(As spoken to the people by the Pale One)
1. Speak only words of truth.
2. Speak only of the good qualities of others.
3. Be a confidant and carry no tales.
4. Turn aside the veil of anger to release the beauty inherent in all.
5. Waste not the bounty, and want not.
6. Honor the light in all. Compare nothing; see all for its suchness.
7. Respect all life; cut away ignorance from one’s own heart.
GOING TO WATER
The waters of the river (“Long Man�? were always believed to be sacred to the Cherokee and believe that the
water is a sacred messenger and commonly used for purification and other ceremonies. There are two forms -
“Going to Water,�?and “Taking Them to Water.�?In “Going to Water,�?the Cherokee wade out into the waters of a
clean running creek or river, face the east of rising sun, and dip themselves seven times in the water while
reciting prayers. This was done every morning, summer or winter, regardless of the weather. The other form
was called “Taking them to Water.�?This way the Cherokee simply dipped up the water by hand and spread it
over their head and body. The rivers, streams or any other natural body of moving water, is considered a
sacred sight, and the tradition of going to water still exists today.
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