In Native American beliefs, all things hold inherent virtue, power, and wisdom. For instance, feathers symbolize honor, connection to the Creator, and the bird it came from. They represent trust, honor, strength, wisdom, power, and freedom.
Feathers are revered objects, signifying high honor.
Feathers hold special significance for Native American warriors, symbolizing victory, bravery, and the transfer of energy from birds. Eagle feathers are particularly esteemed, representing strength, bravery, and holiness in Native culture. They are considered to possess strong medicine.
Recognizing the eagle's unique status, U.S. law permits Native Americans to possess, trade, and use eagle feathers for cultural and spiritual purposes. The handling of eagle feathers is done with reverence, with special ceremonies performed if one is dropped. These feathers adorn sacred items and are used to bless individuals, symbolizing strength and happiness.
This is a photo of Mahpiya Luta, "Red Cloud". Wiyaka Wan'zi, "One Feather" was his sister and our tanjka unci - great-grandmother. She inspired the name of this website, One Feather Roots.