Thunderbird
Background on Thunderbirds
Animkiig (‘Thunderbirds’) are among the most powerful spiritual beings in Anishinaabe (‘Ojibwe) cosmology. They maintain a special, protective relationship to Anishinaabeg (the Anishinaabe people). Although they are invisible forces, Animkiig reveal themselves through stories. This exhibit presents a few of the many, many stories about Animkii or Binesi, as they are known in northern Anishinaabe communities. We give thanks to these storytellers from Minnesota, Manitoba, and Ontario for teaching us about Anishinaabe values. To understand, it is important to learn some Anishinaabemowin (‘Ojibwe language’), for Anishinaabe language and understanding are inextricably interrelated.
Animkiig (‘Thunderbirds’) only speak the Anishinaabe language. Here is some Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe language) to help understand these spirits who have a special, protective relationship to Anishinaabeg (the Anishinaabe people). Click on the Anishinaabe word and you will hear an elder pronounce it. Click on the definition to follow the storylines further.
- Aniin dash wenji ezhichigeyin - Why is that the way you do it?
- Anishinaabemowin - Ojibwe language
- Gi'asemaak eminoma - We will make a tobacco offering here
- Animikiikaagosha. Gaashkozin! - Thunderbirds, really! Wake up!
