Eagle Spirit of Cherokee

spirit · United States · North America

In Cherokee mythology, the eagle spirit is the most sacred of all birds, revered as the messenger between the Cherokee people and the Creator (Unetlvnv/Galvladi). Among the Cherokee of the Southeastern United States, the eagle is known as Awohali and is considered the chief of all birds because it flies the highest and can see all things. The eagle spirit plays a central role in Cherokee ceremonies, particularly those related to war, healing, and community purification. The killing of an eagle was a sacred act performed only by designated Eagle-Killers during the winter season, followed by ela

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