The Navajo creation myth, called the Diné Bahaneʼ, is one of the greatest stories of the Native American peoples, filled with evocative images of nature and wondrous storytelling.
Hasteen M. Klah was a Navajo medicine man who grew up among the culture, whereby ceremonial events and sandpainting were a direct expression of the people’s beliefs. Over the course of his life he sought to write down the various myths of his people, plus the ritual events and songs. The greatest challenge Klah faced was relating the entirety of the creation myth - being true and accurate to the Navajo peoples, but understandable to readers unaccustomed to such an immense religion.
The reader will find the complexity and intricacy of their spiritual lore rewarding; this book contains not only the full narration of the Diné Bahaneʼ, but also the verses sung by the Navajo during the telling of the story. We hear further parts of the creation myth; stories whereby gigantic beasts lay claim to parts of the world, influencing the ancient Navajo tribe’s affinity with nature and its creatures. Towards the conclusion, Klah includes further songs that celebrate the Earth, or commemorate certain occasions and ceremonies. Lastly, there is a lengthy glossary explaining the many names and terms used in the mythos.
