The other 10 commandments

A friend recently asked if I knew of the 10 Native American commandments. She was trying to remember all of them and could not, luckily I was able to fill in the gaps, but had forgotten ones she knew. She is studying her background and has just discovered that she is part Monhegan. The commandments are simple, they are basically:

Respect the planet earth ( not only keep from harming her, but help her...plant, clean up, be fuel efficient)

Remain close to the Great Spirit (be mindful and truly spiritual)

Show respect for others. (As I have written here before, sometimes that means tough love, or telling someone they are doing things incorrectly)

Work together for mankind

Give help when needed

Do the right thing

Take care of yourself (body , mind and spirit. Do not abuse yourself in anyway, abuse others, or allow abuse)

Be truthful and honest

Take responsibility for your actions.

There is another one that is frequently mentioned, although I don't think it was part of the original ten, I believe it is part of a guide for living the NA way, and it is to be humble. I would add that to the original ten and make it number eleven.

These are a great start for a person that is getting involved in Native American spirituality, but it is also a great way for EVERYONE to live their lives. The commandments are nothing but good , healthy direction for you, the world, and the planet. They are new, they are not an old tradition in this form, but they are tenets that the elders followed every day.

...and one last one from me, Do the right things FOR THE RIGHT REASONS.

Don't give to charity to get recognized, applauded, or to make yourself feel better about wrongs you have done. Don't be nice to someone to see what you can get out of them.

In other words........Don't have ulterior motives!

Following these guidelines is simple. Like the Christian 10 commandments, they are rules for life, but unlike the Christian ones, they do not have the legal system to back them up. We know that if we kill someone we are committing a sin, but we also go to jail. You won't go to jail for not following the 10 listed above, but you will create good in the world and in yourself. You will need to police yourself, the civil authorities and priests will not do it for you.

These guidelines are easy, and the "11th" , although not as easy for most folks, is just as important.

Congratulations Sharri for finding your ancestors!


Peshaui Wequashimese




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