Native American Religion: An Introduction, And A Seat At The Table

James Livingston describes, “Religion is that system of activities and beliefs directed toward that which is perceived to be of sacred value and transforming power.” Throughout class reading Native American Religion: An Introduction written by Sam Gill, and A Seat at the Table, written by Huston Smith, among other Native American religious handout; we have been able to better understand what it is to be a Native American. By using examples from the lives of Victor and Thomas Builds-the-Fire in the film Smoke Signals and the readings from Sherman Alexie will strengthen the knowledge of what it is to be a Native American. Natives are said to focus on oral tradition, giving back, being self-sufficient and nature.
Oral tradition is a very important part in the Native American culture. Instead of writing down their history and origins, they instead used their verbal language. Through this language they share their history, legends, rituals and customs. The stories usually focus on a special theme in which helps others learn important lessons through life. The two characters were drastically different. One could say Victor is a what is a new Indian. I would consider him a new Indian …show more content…
Many of Native Americans who live in the United States today life completely off the grid and away from other United States Citizens. Usually living on reservations with other Native Americans. Sam Gill in book spoke on this topic frequently from Natives ceremonies, hunting gathering, to not accepting handouts from the United States Government. In the movie Smoke Signals there was one part in where Thomas and Victor got a ride from two women who also lived on the reservation when they arrived at the bus station they asked Victor and Thomas if they had their passports because they were leaving the country. Both looked surprised because they knew they were not leaving the country, but rather the