Definition.

The term "Native American religion" is actually a misnomer if we consider religion in a traditional western sense; that is, a coherent system based on a single text, remaining fairly consistent over many generations. It is more accurate to refer to Native American spirituality. However, Native American spirituality, while possessing certain similarities, differed from tribe to tribe and from region to region. As a whole, Native Americans considered their culture and social structure to be intimately connected to spirituality, which was an integral part of each aspect of community life. Ceremony and ritual were extensions of everyday existence, but often these celebrations held meaning only for a particular tribe.

The Natural World.

Each Native American tribe had spiritual relationships with the natural world. The Earth and its fruits were gifts to be appreciated, not taken for granted...