Traditional Navajo Teachings: The Natural World

"Navajo teachings provide a classic study of a land-based religion that involves every aspect of the physical world in a spiritual universe. Nothing is too big or small-everything holds a power, provides a teaching, and responds through an inner form. Beyond the material life of daily existence, there lies a world of interconnected relations made apparent in Volume II, The Natural World. This book graphically describes elements of life rooted in the Navajo philosophy of h?zhǫ́. A unified harmony results. I highly recommend this book as a study in understanding the power of relationships that populate the Din? worldview."
-Clayton Long, a participant/creator of the Navajo Rosetta Stone; Bilingual Education Director (retired), San Juan School District, Utah; and curriculum developer for the Navajo Nation.

"For days after reading The Natural World, I found myself looking at my surroundings in a different way. The vibrant spirit of the earth and every plant or animal I encountered seemed to glow through a translucent shell. I have always been a nature-lover and gotten a sense of peace from being outdoors, but since reading these beautiful Navajo teachings I am filled with a profound sense of joy and gratitude every time I walk outside."
-Cindy Yurth, The Navajo Times

About the Author
Robert S. McPherson is a professor of history emeritus at Utah State University, Blanding Campus and has published widely on Navajo and Ute history and culture.

Perry Juan Robinson is from the highly traditional area of Piñon, Black Mesa, Arizona, with a strong family heritage of practicing medicine people. He has been a member of the Navajo Nation Medicine Man Association for over twenty years and continues to work as a hataali.