Beauty…Hózhó

…in the language and culture of indigenous peoples of Turtle Island (North America)

In my family’s Lakota culture, as in other North American tribes, beauty and harmony are one and really have less to do with the eye of the beholder and much more about the heart (spirit).

In Lakota culture, "beauty" or "harmony" is most often understood as living in balance with nature, respecting all living beings, and maintaining a strong sense of community, where everyone plays their part within the larger web of life, often encapsulated by the concept of "Wotakuye" (kinship) and the interconnectedness of all things; this includes respecting the land, animals, and even the spiritual realm.

Key aspects of Lakota harmony:

• Respect for nature:
  The Lakota see the natural world as sacred, with each element having a spirit and a role to play in the balance of life.

• Community focus:
  The concept of "Tiyospaye" (extended family) emphasizes the importance of community, where everyone looks out for each other and shares responsibility.

• Seven Sacred Teachings:
  Lakota ethics are often described through the "Seven Sacred Teachings" which include values like wisdom, courage, humility, generosity, honesty, compassion, and respect.
  

In Navajo/Diné culture, the concept of "beauty" or "harmony" is primarily represented by the word "Hózhó," which encompasses a state of balance, wellness, and living in harmony with oneself, others, and the natural world; essentially meaning "walking in beauty."

Key points about Hózhó:

• Multifaceted meaning:
  "Hózhó" is not just about aesthetics, but also includes concepts like goodness, order, success, and well-being.

• Way of life:
  It's considered a guiding principle for how Navajo people should interact with their environment and live their lives.

• Importance in art and ceremony:
  Navajo art and traditional ceremonies often aim to embody and promote "Hózhó".
  

In general, all North American tribes have this shared concept as part of their culture and society.

Mitákuye oyàsin, hózhó naasha, beannacht. [translation: All are my relatives (Lakota), therefore I will walk in harmony/beauty (Diné), blessed to be blessing (Irish Gaelic)]