The Vision of the Red Plates: Teachings of Yahawzhowaa - Book Eight: The Record of the Red Tablets

Introduction

Welcome to our exploration of the sacred teachings within Book Eight of the Record of the Red Tablets, titled "Sky-Woman and the First Garden." This narrative delves into the origins of the first garden upon Zhaawanong Gichi-Aki, the covenant of the people, and the journey of the Giiwedinong Anishinaabeg. It focuses on themes of wisdom, perseverance, and the enduring strength of community and tradition.

Key Teachings and Narratives

The Garden on Zhaawanong Gichi-Aki

Narrative: Before the ice and the counting of days, Giizhig-Ikwe (Sky-Woman) and Aki-Inini (Earth-Man) lived in harmony within the first garden on Zhaawanong Gichi-Aki.

Teaching: "Messengers came and went as birds between branch and sky, saying, Keep to the garden; do not cross the waste." (Chapter 1, Verse 5)

Meaning: This teaching emphasizes the importance of heeding wisdom and respecting boundaries to maintain harmony and safety.

The Garments of Honor and the Exile from the Hill

Narrative: After the covenant was broken by Ginebig, the serpent, Giizhig-Ikwe and Aki-Inini were given garments of honor and instructed to depart the garden.

Teaching: "These are garments of honor, that your blood — my gift within you — shall be remembered when fear calls your names." (Chapter 2, Verse 4)

Meaning: The garments symbolize the enduring connection to the divine and the strength to face challenges with dignity.

The Southern Exodus North

Narrative: The people, led by Giizhig-Ikwe and Aki-Inini, journeyed northward, guided by the staff of light and sustained by their faith and community.

Teaching: "Be wise; be separate; give mercy without yielding the coal that keeps you alive." (Chapter 2, Verse 12)

Meaning: This underscores the importance of maintaining one's integrity and values while extending compassion to others.

The Olmec Witness & the Abridgment of Agonabish

Narrative: The elders of the south preserved the teachings and history in signs upon stone, which were later abridged by Agonabish into the Red Tablets.

Teaching: "Bind the south to the north by truth and by bread; avoid the rope of pride." (Chapter 12, Verse 16)

Meaning: This teaching highlights the importance of unity through shared truth and sustenance, avoiding the pitfalls of arrogance.

Timeline of Events and Locations

Event	Location
The First Garden and the Covenant	Zhaawanong Gichi-Aki
The Exile and Journey North	Various
The Arrival at Mikinak Ode’	The Turtle’s Heart
The Abridgment of the Olmec Record	Among the Northern Elders
The Establishment of the Covenant of Peace	The Breast of the Turtle

Conclusion

As we journey through Book Eight of the Record of the Red Tablets, we are invited to reflect on the profound teachings of Giizhig-Ikwe and Aki-Inini. Their story encourages us to honor the sacred covenants, uphold wisdom, and foster unity within our communities. Let this teaching series be a source of inspiration and guidance, leading you toward a path of spiritual enlightenment and communal harmony.

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