Okimawatik: The Sacred Tree of Healing and Ceremony

In the rich cultural traditions of the Plains Cree people, Okimawatik holds a significant place as the sacred tree central to the Sun Dance ceremony. This ancient and revered tree embodies spiritual power and plays a vital role in fostering healing, community, and the preservation of ceremonial culture.

The construction of the Sun Dance lodge begins with great reverence after completing the four Wehkatawikan, a series of preparatory rituals. The Okimawatik, also known as the Chief Tree, is carefully chosen as the focal point of the lodge. Skilled artisans carve representations of the moon, Thunderbird, and Buffalo on the tree, symbolizing important spiritual entities. Placing the Okimawatik at the center of the lodge signifies its essential role in the ceremony.

Rocks are meticulously arranged around the base of the Okimawatik, representing the spirit of Old Man Stone. At the back of the lodge, an altar called kahkateyehkan is prepared, adorned with a buffalo skull. Four individuals take their positions in alignment with the spirits of the Sun, Thunderbird, Old Man Wind, and Old Man Buffalo.

Prior to the commencement of the Sun Dance, the sacred pipe ceremony, known as kimaskonikewin, is performed. This ritual signifies the sacred bond between humans and the spiritual realm. Once all preparations are complete, and the lodge builder has finished praying and conducting the pipe ceremony, the Sun Dance can begin.

During the ceremony, gender-segregated groups, with boys on one side and girls on the other, partake in the dance. The rhythmic beat of the drummers and the accompanying whistle blowing create a spiritual ambiance. The dancers engage in a slow spirit song, epekihkatahiket, sung by the one who made the promise to build the lodge.

Elder Henry Felix, an experienced participant in the Sun Dance, emphasizes the importance of adhering to the teachings of the Elders. While minor adjustments and alternative methods may be adopted or dropped within the ceremony, they do not alter the fundamental processes and understandings of the Sun Dance.

The culmination of the Sun Dance occurs on the third day when the Okimawatik, the sacred tree, becomes open to the people for healing. Participants bring offerings of tobacco or prints, symbolizing their respect and gratitude. Some dancers choose to undergo piercing, embodying the spirit of the buffalo, while others embrace the role of the eagle, hanging by the flesh of their skin. These acts of sacrifice serve as profound expressions of dedication to healing, health, well-being, and the preservation of their ceremonial culture.

Throughout the ceremony, knowledge keepers and medicine men are present to offer guidance and address any inquiries. Their wisdom and presence further enrich the spiritual experience for the participants.

The discovery and selection of Okimawatik hold profound significance. This living tree, which remains untouched by cutting or shooting, stands as a vessel for the release of pain, hurt, anger, and grief. It offers hope, belief, healing, and clarity to those who seek its assistance. Okimawatik stands connected to all its relatives, drawing upon the energies and spirits that flow through the interconnected web of life.

Sundancers prepare themselves through purification, fasting, dancing, praying, and dreaming. They disconnect from the outside world, entering a realm of spirit and devotion. On the third day, people are called to join them, bringing cloth and tobacco to cry for pity at Okimawatik, while the dancers continue their prayers, dances, cries, and whistles for the collective healing of the people.

Okimawatik stands as a testament to the profound spiritual practices of the Plains Cree people