The Seven Lakota Values
The Pasque Flower
Because of its importance to the Sioux people, the Pasque was chosen as South Dakota’s official flower.
I was searching for information about the saying, “All things are connected.” It was on my website's home page at some point, and I wanted to see where it came from. I found information about that particular idea and more.
“All things are connected” is a phrase from the Lakota (part of the Sioux Nation) of the Northern Plains. The American Indian people of the Northern Plains call themselves Lakota, Dakota, or Nakota, names of their specific dialects.
After a little more research, I learned that in all three dialects —Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota—“friend” or “ally” refers to alliances between bands. The name “Sioux” was adopted in English from the French by the 1760s. Despite being friends, the Sioux were not a historically peaceful tribe (The Great Sioux War).
That being said, the Lakota people believe that all creation is sacred; therefore, every plant, animal, and human being is holy. This leads me to the following belief:
All things are connected – Mitákuye Oyasiŋ
Below is a list of the Seven Lakota Values and their translations. This beautiful collection of values further reflects their culture’s perspective* on life. Visit the Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center in South Dakota, which details the Lakota people’s beliefs, art, tribal lands, and much more.
Fortitude – Wowačíŋtaŋka
Generosity – Wačáŋtognaka
Kinship – Wótakuye
Prayer – Wóčekiya
Respect – Waóhola
Wisdom – Wóksape
Compassion – Wówauŋšila
