Excerpt from 7generations.org
The Seven Grandfather Teachings are a set of traditional teachings that have been passed down from generation to generation. The seven teachings have been given to the Anishinaabe people to guide them in living a good life, living without conflict and living in peace.
Debwewin
To speak only to the extent we have lived or experienced. Commonly referred to as Truth.
- Deb = to a certain extent
- We = sound through speech
- Win = a way it is done
Dabasendiziwin
To think lower of oneself in relation to all that sustains us. Commonly referred to as Humility.
- Dabas = low or lower
- End = pertaining to thought
- Izi = state or condition
- Win = a way it is done
Manaaji’idiwin
To go easy on one another and all of Creation. Commonly referred to as Respect.
- Manaaji = to go easy on someone
- Idi = in a reciprocal way
- Win = a way it is done
Zaagi’idiwin
Unconditional love between one another including all of Creation, humans and non-humans. Commonly referred to as Love.
- Zaag = to emerge, come out or flow out
- Idi = in a reciprocal way
- Win = a way it is done
Gwayakwaadiziwin
To live correctly and with virtue. Commonly referred to as Honesty.
- Gwayak = correctly, straightly and rightly
- Aadizi = he/she lives
- Win = a way it is done
Zoongide’ewin
To live with a solid, strong heart. Commonly referred to as Bravery or Courage.
- Zoongi = solid, strong
- De’e = a form of heart
- Win = a way it is done
Nibwaakaawin
To live with vision. Commonly referred to as Wisdom.
- Waa = pertaining to sight
- Kaa = an abundance
- Win = a way it is done