Ma'heo'o

creator-deity · United States · North America

Ma'heo'o (also Maheo, Heammawihio) is the Creator and supreme being in Cheyenne religion, meaning 'sacred power' or 'Great Mystery.' Also known as Heammawihio ('Spider Above'), Ma'heo'o is a divine spirit without human form or attributes. According to Cheyenne creation, Ma'heo'o existed before all things and created the world from mud brought by a waterbird (coot), then formed the earth on a turtle's back. He created plants, animals, and humans, and gave the sacred ceremonies through Sweet Medicine and Erect Horns. He is rarely personified in folklore and represents the ultimate sacred power

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