Creation Myth, Religious and Cultural Traditions of Anishinaabe People Essay

Creation Myth, Religious and Cultural Traditions of Anishinaabe People - Essay Example His book the Mishomis Book informs readers of the origin of man and his indigenous language. As a way of validating Benton-Banai’s claims, it is important to compare his claims with the general view of the creation theory, cultural, and religious practices of this unique group. Thus, a detailed comparison shows various similarities and differences in the two accounts. The general view of the Anishinaabe tribe reveals this group of people believe in the existence of a Supreme Being. According to Kulnieks, Longboat, and Young (2013), their creator existed long before the creation of the planet earth. Consequently, He is responsible for creating the earth and all existing human beings and animals. In addition, the Supreme Being created man on the last day. He gave man responsibility to name animals and plants in his native language that is the Anishinaabemowin. Besides, the man had no existing family and community members at that particular time. The creator, Ghizemanidoo, particularly named man Nanabozho. Furthermore, the creator said the name was important and a sign of unity in the community. As a result, it became part of the daily greeting of the community members. Both the general view and Mishomis Book have numerous similarities concerning creation story and religious belief and practices of the Anishinaabe community. Both argue that the Anishinaabe people believe in a supreme and almighty being. This group of people have religious traditions and believes in a creator. They respect and obey their creators’ orders and rules. According to Benton-Banai (2010), the Anishinaabe people have a creator who is their source of life. The creator not only gives them life but also gives them the responsibility to name all animals in the world. In addition, their creator gives a responsibility to preserve and protect animals and plants on earth. This point is also supported by the general people`s view of this tribe.