Sun Symbol

The Sun symbol was of great importance to all of the Native American Indian tribes. The sun symbol is depicted in a variety of ways, three of the symbols are shown on the image. The sun was revered by the Indians as the provider of light, heat, the facilitator of crops and represented growth. The rays of the sun signified the cardinal directions, North, South, East and West. The Sun Dance was a ceremonial dance performed by North American Plains Indians in honor of the sun at the summer solstice.

The Sun Dance was a ceremonial dance performed by North American Plains Indians in honor of the sun at the summer solstice.

Myths and legends

Abenaki Sun Myth: The Abenaki solar deity 'Kisosen' meaning "Sun-Bringer" was symbolised as an eagle whose wings opened to create the day and whose wings closed to create the night. In Lakota Sioux mythology, a sun deity called Wi is one of the most supreme gods and is associated with the American Bison.