Long hair is infused with our Ni (spirit), and is a physical representation of our DNA. Lakota men and women part our hair down the center and is worn in two braids, with the exception of the men, who may also prefer to wear what is now called a scalp lock. The scalp lock is normally a small portion of the hair on top-center and back of the head, between the two braided section - that which is shaped in a diamond or square, and is braided and a feather attached or a hair ornament is attached i.e. waphesa. Our hair is traditionally worn long, and is normally only cut during certain times of the year depending upon the circumstances such as a death or family protocols pertaining to family customs. Also, the parted bare section of the scalp is painted during particular social and ceremonial occasions i.e. sundance, powwows, or events where it is deemed family standard and requirement. If the hair is to be cut or shortened for any reason, it must be rolled into a ball and burned. This custom has three meanings of origin: The first theory began during recent Lakota history around the time of first contact with Euro-Americans; the hair was burned to purification and cleansing of the body due in part to European illnesses such as smallpox etc. The second, by burning the hair, it symbolized the releasing of the spirit within the hair follicles. By burning the hair, it is said by some elder Lakota people, and families that no one person is capable of witching or doing harm to you if they were to get ahold of your hair to perform bad medicine. One more piece of information is: during certain Lakota ceremonies men, women, and children wear a scalp lock and eagle feathers or plumes are attached to it i.e. naming ceremonies. Historically and Pre-historically, only family members were permitted to touch a Lakota persons hair. However, this custom still exists in some cases. Our hair is cherished and links us to rich and illustrious past as Lakota People. -Sid Bad Moccasin, III
Posted on: Mon, 27 Oct 2014 17:32:38 +0000
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