You may recognize this Native American dreamcatcher. It is also called a dreamcatcher.
This handcrafted object of Ojibwe origin is designed to protect its owner from bad dreams. There are several legends that trace its history according to tribes and times. Its function remains the same:
The dreamcatcher captures bad dreams by weaving the thread to leave only good dreams for its owner. The bad dreams are destroyed at the first rays of the sun. It should therefore be hung on the side where the sun rises.
In order for the dreamcatcher to work, it must either be made by its owner or it must have been given by its creator directly to the person concerned.
The meaning of its materials :
The hoop represents the sun or the cycle of life in general, the crossed threads represent the thread of the spider's web and the central pearl the spider. The decoration of a dreamcatcher remains unique and different in each era.
Some dreamcatchers have small pearls scattered on the net. They represent the morning dew.
The spider symbolises learning, wisdom and energy.
The hole in the centre of the weave represents the passage for dreams.
The feathers represent air. They make the beautiful dreams slide down to the holder of the dream catcher.
Depending on the number of points at which the thread is attached to the hoop, its meaning changes:
- 7 points of attachment represent the seven foundations of Amerindian culture (air, spirits, cardinal points, earth, cycle, prayer and name),
- 8 attachment points represent the 8 legs of the spider,
- 13 points of attachment represent the 13 phases of the moon (there are not 12 months but 13 moon phases in a Native American year).
Practice decoding the image of this post with what you have just learned! So, did you find the little inconsistency in the image ?
I'm waiting for your answers in the comments !