THE PLAINS CREE CONNECTIVE STONES THEORY

EARTH-SKY VERTEBRAL SPINES AND UMBILICAL CORDS

Abstract

Set within the context of a traditional Plains Cree sweat lodge ceremony,
the connective stones theory is interpreted according to Cree cosmologies
of the Swampy (Ontario), Woodlands (Manitoba), and Plains
(Alberta) Peoples that recognize parallel vertebral spines and umbilical
cords between the sky and earth worlds. I make a connection between
the human spine and five other-related forms of being: 7 stars constellations,
12 thoracic and (12 x 2) ribs of a ceremonial sweat lodge frame, the
first 5 hot rocks of a sweat lodge fire, the cradle (or pit) of the lodge, and
the sacred pipe. This theory utilizes Indigenous metaphor as a research
tool to explore concepts of interconnectivity, relationality, and communication
between earthly beings, human activities, and the cosmos. Everything
in the universe is made of stardust: bones of spinal columns,
willow saplings, animals, and all other forms of beings of physical and
spiritual states—all are considered asiniyak (stones) in the connective
stones theory.