Lisa Jones
Tree of Life
25" x
38"
The Tree of Life is one of
the most unique and interesting of Navajo myths and legends.
It is an interpretation of where the people came from, their
beliefs in the progression and movement of life, connections
with their surroundings and the involvement of their deities.
It is a metaphor for who they are and the life they lead.
At the base of the corn plant there is a symbol for the emergence
or "center of all things". This represents the birth
of the Earth Surface people and their appearance into this, the
fifth world. The rainbow is a guardian figure, guarding both
the lower worlds and the upper or present world. It also shows
the presence and blessings of the super naturals.
The eagle feathers at the
ends of the rainbow are considered symbols of communication with
the spirit world. Emergence from the lower worlds came about
when it was flooded by Water Creature, due to Coyote's theft
of his children and withdrew only when his youngsters were returned.
The corn plant itself is symbolic in that it represents the upward
moving way of the Navajo. The roots of the plant reflect a connection
to the lower worlds, the knowledge gained from the experience
and the respect for the forefathers. The stalk is reaching upward,
looking to the future, strong and supple due to the care and
nourishment given by her people through Changing Woman.
The fruit of the plant is
the people, Navajo people believe they were created of corn,
(White; male and yellow; female), with the aid of Wind and the
four directional Yei-be-chei they were given life. Proof of the
creation of humans resides in the spirals of ones fingertips
and the swirl of hair at the top - back of the head. The tassel
at the top of the plant and silk on the corn, along with pollen
represents prayer and the sacredness of life.
When Talking God and Calling God left the people, they said;
"This is the last time you have seen the diyin, (Holy beings)
and you shall not see them again....But when you hear the twitter
and chatter of small birds, you will know that we are nearby".
Large birds, like hawks and eagles are powerful fliers and have
the ability to carry messages to the sky worlds, they act as
intermediaries between the real and spirit worlds.
Often the four sacred mountains
of the Dine are portrayed, they are territory markers, dwelling
places of sacred beings, holy ground and sanctuaries for plants
and animals. Mountains were given to the Navajo to provide protection,
the outside world is believed to be held at bay and as long as
the people reside within this sacred universe, they will grow
as people both physically and emotionally. The promise of prosperity
will also be granted as long as respect, proper treatment and
honor are given the land.
Above all things are the sky
worlds, showing room for further growth and upward movement.
The Sun provides essential light and energy while the Moon softly
nourishes and the stars reflect the past. In its entirety the
story told by The Tree of Life is rich with Navajo culture and
tradition and gives a rare insight into its nuances.
This particular type of design
is one of the most meaningful in Navajo rug weaving. It speaks
of associations with previous existence, life ways, and connections
to the super naturals. By portraying these images it is thought
that those beings watching from other dimensions will be pleased
and provide aid when needed.
This size and style has great
eye appeal and provides good coverage.
Our rug selection ranges from
heavy-duty rugs that work well on the floor to table runners,
and from wall hangings to fine tapestries. We try to hand-pick
the best rugs at the best possible value. We believe this particular
piece fits nicely into such a category.
