The Vision of the Red Plates: Teachings of Yahawzhowaa from Book One: The Waters of the Great Turtle

The Vision of the Red Plates: Teachings of Yahawzhowaa

Welcome to our exploration of the sacred narrative found within the Record of the Red Plates. This revered collection of histories and teachings illuminates the spiritual journey of the Anishinaabeg people. Compiled by Agonabish, these records weave together fragments from various sources, offering profound insights into creation, exile, spiritual laws, and the ministry of Yahawzhowaa, the Peacemaker.

Our journey begins with Book One: "The Waters of the Great Turtle," set between 56 and 90 AD, where Yahawzhowaa arrives at Mitchimakinak. His presence brings wisdom, healing, and the promise of light to the people, guiding them through teachings that resonate with timeless truths.

Key Teachings of Yahawzhowaa

Light and Spiritual Integrity

Yahawzhowaa emphasizes the importance of maintaining the light within one's vessel—a metaphor for spiritual integrity and divine connection. His teachings illustrate the protective and guiding nature of spiritual enlightenment.

• Teaching: "A canoe full of light needeth not to fear the night; but a canoe without light is lost though the sun be high." (Chapter 1, Verse 16)

  
  

This teaching encourages individuals to tend to their spiritual resilience, suggesting that a well-tended spirit can withstand life's challenges and remain connected to the divine source.

Unity and Community Harmony

Throughout his journey, Yahawzhowaa fosters a sense of unity and community among the people. His actions highlight the interconnectedness of individuals and the strength found in collective spiritual growth.

• Teaching: "Two lodges that share one fire shall both be warm; but if each kindle its own against the other, both shall burn." (Chapter 14, Verse 6)

  
  

This metaphor warns against division and strife, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and mutual support in maintaining communal bonds.

Covenant and Divine Promise

Yahawzhowaa's teachings are deeply rooted in the concept of covenant—a sacred agreement between the divine and humanity. He fulfills prophecies, embodying the divine promise of redemption and enlightenment.

• Teaching: "The light in the vessel is the covenant between the Maker and thy soul; it is thy guidance in darkness, thy warmth in cold, thy sight in the storm." (Chapter 4, Verse 24)

  
  

This teaching highlights the protective and guiding nature of the divine covenant, encouraging individuals to maintain their spiritual connection and trust in divine guidance.

Peace and Reconciliation

As a Peacemaker, Yahawzhowaa's teachings often focus on reconciliation and the transformative power of peace.

• Teaching: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of the Father." (Chapter 14, Verse 13)

  
  

This blessing highlights the divine favor bestowed upon those who work towards peace, reinforcing the value of harmony and understanding in spiritual practice.

Timeline of Locations and Events

1. Mitchimakinak (The Great Turtle): Arrival and teachings on light and spiritual integrity.

2. Gichi-Asin (The Standing Stone): Gathering and healing, emphasizing unity.

3. Eastern Cliffs of Mitchimakinak: Teachings on the lodge of the Father and parables of light.

4. Grandfather’s Spring: Healing and teachings on the flow of the Father’s light.

5. Southern Shore: Miraculous acts and teachings on the Spirit as water.

6. Mishigami (Lake Michigan): Calming of the storm and teachings on faith and resilience.

7. Waganakising (Bay of the Crooked Shore): Parables of the net and teachings on divine provision.

8. Ahnami-zaaga’igan (Lake of the Prayer): Peace and reconciliation among hunters.

9. Inland Waters: Prophecy and teachings on the flow of light to many nations.

10. Return to Mitchimakinak: Final teachings and blessings before departure.

    
    

Conclusion

As we delve into Book One of the Record of the Red Plates, we are invited to reflect on the profound teachings of Yahawzhowaa. His words encourage us to nurture the light within, foster unity, and uphold the covenant with the divine. Let this teaching series be a source of inspiration and wisdom, guiding you on a path of spiritual enlightenment and communal harmony.

Read in the Mamuwinini