Niizhwaaswi Mishomis Kinoomaagewinawaan
(Seven Grandfather Teachings)
Did you know that the Ziibiwing Kids Club logo has seven stars?
This is to represent the Seven Grandfather Teachings. The Seven Grandfather Teachings are our core values that help us all to live the Anishinabe Bimaadiziwin, or the good life. These are guiding principles to live by, to make the Earth feel good, and our hearts, too.
The Anishinabe people believe that we must all take care of Aki (Mother Earth). That way, the flowers, trees, and animals we need to live will be here for you, your kids, and even their kids for the next seven generations!
To take care of Aki, we must follow the Teachings of the First Elder. When the First Elder was little, just like you, the Seven Grandfathers each gave him a great gift.
The first gave him the gift of Nibwaakaawin (Wisdom) and he used this wisdom to help his people.
The second Grandfather gave the gift of Zaagidwin (Love) so that we would love his brother and sister and share with them.
Next, a third Grandfather granted the gift of Manaadjitowaawin (Respect) so that he would honor everyone, all created things. This includes mankind and our brothers, the animals, plants, and elements.
Aakodewin (Bravery) was the fourth gift, so he wouldn’t be scared to do things. We have the courage to try things even when they are hard or scary.
The fifth Grandfather gave him Gwekowaadiziwin (Honesty) so he would tell the truth and feel good in his heart.
The sixth Grandfather gifted him with Dibaadendizowin (Humility) so he would know that he was equal to all people, no better or no less.
Finally, the boy was given Debwewin, (Truth). The Grandfather said, “Be true in everything that you do. Be true to yourself and true to your people. Always speak the truth.”
The First Elder then took these teachings and passed them on to us so we would take good care of Aki.
Learn the words from the Seven Grandfather Teachings on our Let’s Learn Ojibwe page. Then color the ZC Kids logo with the seven stars and do a word find on our Let’s Play page.
