The Wisdom of the Native Americans [Hardcover]

Kent Nerburn (Editor)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 3, 1999

These thought-provoking teachings from respected Native American leaders and thinkers provide a connection with the land, the environment, and the simple beauties of life. This collection of writings from revered Native Americans offers timeless, meaningful lessons on living and learning.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Every part of all this soil is sacred to my people. Every hillside, every valley, every plain and grove has been hallowed by some sad or happy event in days long vanished. The very dust you now stand on responds more willingly to their footsteps than to yours, because it is rich with the blood of our ancestors and our bare feet are conscious of the sympathetic touch." — Chief Seattle, from the book --This text refers to the Kindle Edition edition.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 216 pages
• Publisher: New World Library; 1st edition (March 3, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1577310799
• ISBN-13: 978-1577310792
• Product Dimensions: 7.2 x 5.3 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (29 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #44,220 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #10 in Books > Literature & Fiction > United States > Native American
  • #88 in Books > History > Americas > Native American

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

113 of 117 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars From One Who Knows Animals Have Souls, September 22, 2003

By 

SpiritJourney (Pennsylvania, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Wisdom of the Native Americans (Hardcover)

I have bought many books here, but have never felt compelled to write a review until now. As a person who teaches dogs to help the disabled, I know firsthand the oneness you can experience with the spirit of an animal. I have seen loving, selfless dogs heal the lives of so many who were outcast and emotionally broken. Therefore, when I read this work, my soul leapt with joy to finally, FINALLY! find out that others (Nations!) feel about the natural world as I do. While this work doesn't focus solely on animals, but encompasses the Native American view on many, many topics, including life, death, living, nature, The Creator and their experiences with white culture, I truly felt I had found "home" when I came upon their beliefs about animals. In my family's religion, man is supreme, animals have little to no value and when they die, that's it, they're just dead. This wonderful book gives a different perspective on The Spirit of The Creator as it is reflected in people, nature AND animals. A perspective in need of hearing and teaching to so many who today, place no value on our natural world. To me, it was the proverbial cool drink of water on a hot, hot day. Read it and find your soul. Rather, read it, embrace it and reclaim your soul. No doubt you will find it waiting patiently for you in the wilderness ...............

91 of 97 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars I wish I could give this book 10 stars!, December 18, 2000

By 

W. Lambdin "Two Bears" (Ellensburg, WA) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Wisdom of the Native Americans (Hardcover)

This book is a masterpiece of American Indian philosophy and Spirituality.

This book is basicly a collection of quotes and speeches by various American Indian leaders with a few comments by Mr. Nerburn that edited them into a seamless volume of American Indian thought.

There are quotes here that deal with their Spirituality including reincarnation, Their family Life, Their care for Nature, Honesty, etc.

I am considering buying several more copies of this book to help my family and friends understand my spiritual beliefs.

I only have one minor nitpick. Mr. Nerburn insists on calling the Chief of the Suquamish people "Chief Seattle". His name was Sealth. Seattle was an error in translation.

Yes; Seattle, Washington was named for this wise leader.

Please E-mail me if you have questions or comments about my review. Two Bears.

Wah doh Ogedoda "We give thanks Great Spirit"

47 of 48 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A simple yet powerful roadmap to a good life., October 17, 2000

By 

Dari B. Wayne (Lawrenceville, GA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Wisdom of the Native Americans (Hardcover)

"Let us put our minds together and see what kind of life we can make for our children." --Sitting Bull

Great oratory is often found in a single, heartfelt statement. This powerful little book of wisdom shares so many precious words on how to walk the road to a good life for our own personal journey as well as our families, friends and the world's peoples. Filled with these simple yet profound statements from the indigenous peoples of the Americas they will bring tears to your eyes, laughter to your heart and a little wisdom to your soul.

For the reader who may think this is another "new age title", nothing could be further from the truth as noted in the Chapter, The Coming of the White Ways, "Another of the older men, called upon for his views..."I have come to the conclusion that this Jesus was an Indian. He was opposed to material acquisition and to great possessions. He was inclined to peace...he set no price upon his labor of love." The book closes with the great speeches of Chief Joseph, Chief Seattle and Chief Red Jacket. If all the earth's peoples embraced these simple and timeless rules for living we would be a happier world.