The Hopi name derives from the name Hopituh Shi-nu-mu, which translates into “The Peaceful Little People”. Their days consist of celebrating a beautiful religion, which is based upon helping others. The education of this religion begins during early childhood, with the gifting of tithu dolls. These dolls represent the katsinum, and are meant as a symbolism for life’s milestones. The children do not wish to play with the dolls; they do not even see them as toys. These dolls serve as reminders of the katsinum, and each doll holds deeply sentimental value.
The dolls also participate in celebrations of The Hopi Ceremonial Calendar. Almost each month, there is a celebration of the calendar, a holiday, if you will. Before each ceremony, The Hopi pray at th altar, offering sacred goods like tobacco and corn. The events have several ceremonial dancers, who send prayers to spirits before each dance. The Chief announces the ceremony, which commences with Kachina dancers following the elder into the kivas.

The Hopi Calendar

Hopi Ceremonial Calendar Powamuya - Bean Dance Ceremony

Hopi Ceremonial Calendar: Coming up… Powamuya

What’s Up Next?
February:
During this month, the Hopi celebrate the imitation of children into the tribe. The initiation involves “monsters” entering the village, threatening to eat the children who misbehaved. The men would dress up in masks with excessively frightening and large features like beaks and teeth. Each man carries a bow, and sprouts a bean in the kivas. This proves that life can sustain in the winter.

 

Ceremony:
The Eototo appears for the Powamuya ceremony in February. The Tribe considers Eototo the spiritual chief of the village. Eototo controls the seasons, and is seen as the spiritual grandfather. During this ceremony, Eototo uses cornflower to attract moisture and clouds into the pueblo. During the ceremonial dances and sacrifices, Eototo promises to provide food and water to the Hopi.

Eototo Powamuya Ceremonial Doll - Bean Dance Ceremony

Eototo Powamuya Ceremonial Doll