The Moon

The Native Moon Symbol is the protector and guardian of the earth. Its spirit watches over us and can change our moods. The moon is a vital part of the natural world, influencing tides, seasons, and animal behaviors. It is a guiding force, helping people with navigation and timing activities on land and sea, such as harvesting and fishing.

The moon represents the interconnectedness of all living beings.

In Northwest Coast Art, the circular moon shape is often used as the foundation for a piece of art, such as a moon mask, which is then decorated with different motifs of humans, animals, etc. Moon carvings are often adorned with abalone shell or mother-of-pearl, referencing both the light and the moon's influence on the tides.

Argillite Moon Pendant by Haida artist Andrew Williams

Moon Symbol and First Nations

One of the many Native stories tells that an eclipse is a codfish trying to swallow the Moon. To prevent this, bonfires were made with branches from pine trees and other trees to make a lot of smoke; this would cause the codfish to cough and spit the Moon out. 

Native Art - The Moon Symbol

Spirits of the West Coast Native Art Gallery sells Moon Symbol prints, Native American Jewelry, Moon Native carvings, Moon ceremonial masks, gold and silver bracelets, and bentwood boxes, all inspired by the Moon Symbol.

Contributions

If you have any further information or stories with or about this Native American Symbol or totem and you would like to share them with our readers, please feel free to email them to us. If they are appropriate we will add them to this page. Thank you!