Glossary

There are some words and concepts in this book that may need further explanation. Hopefully this glossary will help in this regard.

Aa—Blackfeet word for “yes.”

Dreams/visions—this is the way in which one communicated with Sun or other spirits. It was also used by some to try to foresee the future.

Medicine bundle—a bundle of things (usually having to do with one’s vision) kept near or on the person. This bundle has powers to protect, and often to heal, the person who owns it.

Night Light/Old Woman—both terms refer to the moon. She is also sometimes called “Mother” by the Blackfeet. She is the wife of Sun.

Saa—Blackfeet word for “no.”

Smudge—to use the smoke from herbs which have been set on fire (usually lit in a large shell) to purify or cleanse oneself; to pray. The person doing this usually bathes his face and body with the smoke.

Soka’pii (pronounced sa-kaa-pe)—Blackfeet word for “good.”