The History Of Native American Rattles

Music is a distinctive part of Indian life, and the Native American rattle helps to complete the picture. Made from diverse materials such as gourds, rawhide, pottery, and turtle shells, each tribe puts its own signature on its rattles. The sound producing elements are chosen with care. Southwest tribes often use dried corn kernels in their rattles. Specially chosen pebbles from the banks of streams are used by other native people. No aspect of the Native American rattle is made without thought. The spiritual power attached to these rattles, assured that they were, and are, created with the utmost care.

Native American rattles are used to signify the three spiritual kingdoms. A wooden handle or a gourd symbolizes the plant world. If the rattle is made of hide or feathers are used as a decorating tool, the animal kingdom is represented. The stones used as the percussive element symbolize minerals. When the rattle is shaken, the power drawn from the three kingdoms is transmitted. Rattles are used today in a wide range of Native ceremonies, and dancers shake them as they perform.

Drawn from the natural world, Native Americans show symbolism and meaning in the construction of their rattles. It freely flows into the ceremonials and dances so important to Native American culture. Rattles are often used not only at a ceremony, but by individuals for meditation. Tension and stress can be released by listening to the soothing sound of the rattle.

Native American rattles are available in a wide range of styles today. Indian artists, who draw upon their cultural knowledge, produce beautiful and meaningful rattles. A plain rattle can be enhanced by being decorated in a variety of ways. Feathers and fur are often attached to the rattle. Many rattles are painted either in traditional Indian geometric patterns, or with visions of the natural world. Many times, painted rattles feature the animal world. Sometimes also used in the design is traditional Indian beadwork. Rattles made by Native American artists incorporate traditional items into the rattle for the sound. Items included inside a rattle such as corn, clay beads, small pebbles and seeds, all produce a calming and pleasing sound.

An Indian rattle of the Native American culture, can bring a bit of the spiritual serenity into your home. Many people find that a collection of Indian rattles adds a new dimension to their home decor. A collection of Native American rattles will brighten the wall in any room of your home. You will undoubtedly find that your mind is refreshed and cleared by the sound produced when you use a rattle for personal meditation.

Comments? Questions? Email Here

© HowtoAdvice.com

How to Advice .com