05/27/2020
Today I honor the Wakíŋyaŋ for they have finally come home!
⚡️Wakíŋyaŋ is a Lakota word for "thunder” and is usually translated as "Thunder Spirits", "Thunder Beings," or "Thunder Birds.” In the sacred Black Hills, the Lakota ceremonial season begins with the Return of the Thunder Beings and is announced by the presence of thunder, lightening, and rain
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It is believed their return (which also marks the beginning of Spring) can bring an extraordinary celebration of life - migrating animals and birds reappear, buffalo emerge from their winter camps, hibernating creatures wake, and the plants and flowers began to bloom...but these powerful beings also bring turbulent, destructive storms to the land.
Thunder Beings are said to have the power to give life, but also take it away. They can destroy with the wind, cause flood and drought, or burn with lightening; but at the same time, they can also renew and bring the vital rains and nurture all life on earth.
The Thunderbird (one of the physical forms of the Thunder Beings) is said to be an enormous bird-like creature with legendary strength and power. They govern the weather - their voice is thunder and lightening flashes from their eyes
The legend of Wakinyan Tanka, the Great Thunderbird describes these beings as good spirits, guardians of truth and protectors of men - they are sacred and highly regarded by the Lakota people.
