WHAT DOES THE MANATAKA SEAL SYMBOLIZE?

Four Color Designs
In the tradition of many American Indian nations, the four designs around the circle represents mankind and the four cardinal points of direction, east, west, south and north.

In the Beginning, the Creator sent newly created beings of different colors to each of four points on earth.  Red, pointing to the East represents the sun and creation to remind us of our rich Indian heritage and our duty to advance Indian culture. The color red is a symbol of success. White, the symbol of peace and purity points to the south. Black points to the west the place of dread and darkness and the setting sun. Blue and sometimes Yellow, points north.

The four designs surrounding the circle are symbolic of the arrowhead which depicts strength and protects the inner seal from evil.  The four colored designs reminds us of the equality of all men and our respect for all races, nationalities, creeds and religions.

The Seal
The outer ring of the seal is encircled by the sacred hoop. The circle of life binds the contents of the seal in unity and exemplifies the purpose of the Manataka American Indian Council to bring all people together in peace and harmony.   

Set in a pure white background symbolizing truth, purity and peace. The word "Ma-na-ta-ka", comes from the name of the sacred gathering place of many nations and tribes, including native peoples from 34 language groups.  Manataka, now called Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas was also called "No-wa-sa-lon", meaning the Breath of Healing because of the therapeutic hot water springs. A great abundance and many varieties of medicinal healing herbs, healing clay and healing crystals are also found Manataka.

The light blue inner seal represents the sky and the dwelling place of the Great Spirit surrounding green earth with his protection and love. 

The green pyramid symbolizes sacred mother earth and all her bounty and portrays the great mountain, Man-a-ta-ka, the most sacred American Indian site in the western hemisphere.  The dark blue field flowing down the mountain and into a pool at the bottom denotes the healing hot waters of No-wa-salon that spews from the depths of the mountain. 

A brown cup surrounding the sacred waters is tobacco used by American Indians in religious ceremonies.  Tobacco represents the plant kingdom and our reverence for all living things. 

The great spread-wing 'Rising Phoenix' is reminiscent of the prophecy that foretells of the emergence and rebirth of our ancient civilization.  The Phoenix figured prominently in American Indian ritual and dance and is considered a symbol of strength and loyalty.

   

The great seal of the Manataka American Indian Council symbolizes rebirth of the spirit and strength of native peoples and our sacred duty to advance the culture of American Indians. 

TURTLE ISLAND ALPHABET: A Lexicon of Native American Symbols and Culture 
by Gerarld Hausman, Illustrated

An alphabetic guide to Native American culture, which includes stories and poems. Forward by N. Scott Momaday.  New York, NY, U.S.A.: Saint Martin's Press, LLC, 1993. 204 pages. Two-tone illustrations. over 7¾" - 9¾" tall. 

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