front cover of Traditional Navajo Teachings
Traditional Navajo Teachings
Sacred Narratives and Ceremonies
Robert S. McPherson
University Press of Colorado, 2020
"The books should be required reading for anyone who comes to teach, practice medicine or work on the Navajo Nation in any capacity- as well as young Navajos who seek a deeper understanding of their culture."
—Cindy Yurth, The Navajo Times

"In Sacred Narratives and Ceremonies, the authors lay the foundation of traditional Navajo beliefs and practices. They provide an inside perspective rarely discussed by non-medicine people and share the beauty and power of a system that unites humans to the holy beings—through teachings, rituals, materials, and daily behavior. This book is pure gold. It is full of traditional wisdom available to those wanting to understand Navajo culture as seen through the eyes of its elders. I highly recommend this book as a treasure trove for the Diné people."
—Clayton Long, participant/creator of the Navajo Rosetta Stone; Bilingual Education Director (retired), San Juan School District, Utah; and curriculum developer for the Navajo Nation
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front cover of Traditional Navajo Teachings
Traditional Navajo Teachings
The Earth Surface People
Robert S. McPherson
University Press of Colorado, 2020
"The Earth Surface People, the final work in this trilogy, provides teachings about Navajo life from cradleboard to grave. Central to all is achieving “Long Life, Happiness” as one moves through various stages of existence. The second half of this book examines thoughts concerning the organization of the human body, sickness, western medicine, and death, all of which are part of the Pollen Path. How one walks this trail to his or her final destination is measured by one’s ability to live through its teachings. The four sacred directions with their associated powers are essential to earth life as outlined through ceremonies and daily practices. Here, one moves on a journey from teachings of the past to issues of the present. This volume is extremely helpful for youth to understand life values and the importance of identity, as well as acting as a reminder for adults of the enabling power of traditional culture."
—Clayton Long, a participant/creator of the Navajo Rosetta Stone; Bilingual Education Director (retired), San Juan School District, Utah; and curriculum developer for the Navajo Nation.
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front cover of Traditional Navajo Teachings
Traditional Navajo Teachings
The Natural World
Robert S. McPherson
University Press of Colorado, 2020

"Navajo teachings provide a classic study of a land-based religion that involves every aspect of the physical world in a spiritual universe. Nothing is too big or small—everything holds a power, provides a teaching, and responds through an inner form. Beyond the material life of daily existence, there lies a world of interconnected relations made apparent in Volume II, The Natural World. This book graphically describes elements of life rooted in the Navajo philosophy of hózhǫ́. A unified harmony results. I highly recommend this book as a study in understanding the power of relationships that populate the Diné worldview."
—Clayton Long, a participant/creator of the Navajo Rosetta Stone; Bilingual Education Director (retired), San Juan School District, Utah; and curriculum developer for the Navajo Nation.

"For days after reading The Natural World, I found myself looking at my surroundings in a different way. The vibrant spirit of the earth and every plant or animal I encountered seemed to glow through a translucent shell. I have always been a nature-lover and gotten a sense of peace from being outdoors, but since reading these beautiful Navajo teachings I am filled with a profound sense of joy and gratitude every time I walk outside."
—Cindy Yurth, The Navajo Times

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