From the Midewag, the Northern Retreat: A Glimpse into the Midewiwin Record of 1567

Chief Midegah
6 days ago
4 min read

The Midewiwin Records: Core Teachings for Today

The Midewiwin, a term derived from "Mino" (meaning good) and "Ode" (meaning heart), embodies the belief that the universe's Chief Medicine resides within the heart. This belief underscores a profound connection with the Creator, recognizing that we are all living creations of this divine force. Through its sacred teachings and records, the Midewiwin imparts profound wisdom, documenting both pre- and post-flood periods.

Valued Traditions and Beliefs

The Midew, or members of the Midewiwin, held family and the role of the mother in high esteem. Men took solemn oaths to use their strength and endurance—gifts from the Creator—to protect and provide for the mother and her future generations. Within the Midewiwin worldview, a mother's strength and endurance are embodied in her descendants. Her ability to nurture and sustain life is reflected in the vitality and continuity of her lineage. The well-being and prosperity of her children and future generations are seen as manifestations of her enduring strength.

The Midew believed that humans are spirits housed in earthly vessels, formed in the womb from the plants and animals consumed by the mother, nurtured by the earth where their ancestors rest. This worldview fostered a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all life and the fulfillment of prayers through future generations. The Midew equated the protection of nature—the air, water, earth, and all living beings—with the protection of family, recognizing that the strength of the mother and her descendants depended on the health of the earth.

Historical Journey and Preservation

In the mid to late 16th century, the Midewiwin faith strategically relocated to the northern regions of what would become the American Continent and Canada. This movement was crucial for safeguarding their knowledge and traditions from external threats. The decision to relocate was influenced by the fate of the Three Deers family in the Guatemala region (known in the Book of Mormon as the Land of Zarahemla). This family, pivotal in managing trade, spirituality, and peacemaking across the Americas, faced significant challenges. As a result, the Deer families from South, Central, and North America migrated together for protection.

Their experiences of destruction were documented and brought to the northern Great Lakes Midew by Gijikossekot, the Great Thunderbird, who would become the head of the Midewiwin by 1599. Gijikossekot's descendants would go on to lead the Great Chippewa Nation (Ojibway), with the renowned Chief Mamongazeda witnessing the birth of the United States and his son-in-law Chief Pewanakum signing the United States' first constitutional treaty in 1789 at Fort Harmar on behalf of the United Nations of the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Pottawatomi.

The Midewiwin records contain histories of past destructions similar to those experienced in the 16th century. These records include accounts of migrations around 700 BC, following a previous attempt at total civilization conquest, known today as the first Fall of Jerusalem. Migrants from this era landed in the St. Lawrence Waterway and the western coast of Guatemala near Lake Atitlan. They would proliferate in trading upon the continent and then experience a civil war in the 5-7th centuries (Book of Mormon). It was believed that it was possible that the same destructive forces they had fled were now upon the shores of the Americas 2,000 years later.

Unveiling Hidden Wisdom and Encounters

While many Midewiwin records have been released, offering insights into their spiritual and cultural heritage, numerous other records remain undisclosed. These unreleased documents contain valuable knowledge on mathematics, astronomy, geology, and histories from various recorders, spanning thousands of years. Their eventual release promises to further illuminate the rich tapestry of knowledge and wisdom held by the Midewiwin.

In the 1640s, as the Midewiwin people returned to their original homelands after a generation (20-30 years) of wandering to escape the devastating plague of 1616-1619, they encountered new challenges. Despite the plague having claimed 90% of the continent's population in just 3 years, the returning communities were still substantial. This resurgence led to interactions with Jesuits, who sought communication and peace. However, the return of the Midewiwin also marked the beginning of the Beaver Wars, as European powers coveted their trade routes.

In 1641, the Midew arrived with scrolls at Bawaating (present-day Sault Ste. Marie, near the Garden River Ojibway Nation, known as the place of rapids). During an exchange of knowledge, the Jesuits shared their biblical teachings, while the Midew elders presented comparable narratives from their scrolls. This revelation startled the Jesuits, leading to a tense confrontation where some attempted to seize the scrolls and even burn the building with the elders inside.

The Northern Retreat: A Journey of Preservation

It was for this exact reason the Elders spoke in the 1560s and a portion is found in The Midewag where in 1567, the elders of the northern lodges noticed strangers arriving, bringing unfamiliar goods, similar faith but with deceit. While some welcomed these newcomers, the northern elders, led by Migizi-Waawaashkeshi, remained cautious. Kwe-Zhigaag called upon the people to journey northward to protect their sacred teachings. The copper and birch bark scrolls, containing the words of Yehowzhowa, needed safeguarding. This journey was not just physical but spiritual, reflecting the commitment to truth and resilience.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Resilience and Truth

The Midewiwin records offers timeless lessons on resilience, truth, and the importance of cultural preservation. It is the surviving library of what occurred for the last 3000 years from the tribal faith itself which until recent felt hunted and sought to be replaced for conquest.

As the Book of Mormon teaches, "Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope" (2 Nephi 31:20). The faithful Midewiwin, continue to guard our sacred teachings and pass them on to future generations, whether in song, teachings, or reading the priesthood language. In doing so, we ensure that the light of truth continues to shine brightly, offering guidance and hope to all who seek it.

Supporting a Vision for Healing and Preservation

We are dedicated to creating a transformative impact through the proceeds of the Sacred Records Application and the sale of our hard copy books. Our mission is to establish the world's largest tribal center in Missouri, focusing on: