Welcome to this episode of wildwestfaces, Almost every tribes gave the bear a prominent place in their culture, Bears are symbols of wisdom, often featureding as guardians, teachers, leaders, and healers in Native origin stories and myths.
Revered for its ferocity and its ability to keep fighting while wounded, the grizzly bear was associated with both war and healing.
When a bear was killed by lance or bow and arrow, a prayer or apology was offered in its honour. A necklace of bear claws was considered to contain spiritual power, giving the wearer protection and good health. The were never traded but could be given as a gift. The large claws seen here are grizzly Bear claws the smaller ones black Bears. A warrior with the word "bear" in his name was considered brave and a good provider.
