The legend of the creation of stars
Long ago, before humans inhabited the earth and the sky was illuminated by stars, night reigned supreme. The world was plunged into total darkness when the sun disappeared below the horizon. Nocturnal creatures and the first inhabitants of the earth lived in fear of the unknown and the dangers hidden by the darkness.
The Great Spirit , creator of all, saw that this darkness frightened both men and animals. The nights were long and terrifying, and people dared not leave their homes once the sun had set. They could not travel, hunt, or explore without light to guide them.
Moved by their suffering, the Great Spirit decided it was time to bring light into the darkness. He summoned Pakwa , the Great Bird of the Heavens, and commanded him to fly to the ends of the earth and bring back the eternal light of the stars.
Pakwa obeyed, spreading his great silver wings and flying beyond mountains, forests, and rivers. He flew day and night without stopping, determined to find the source of light that could guide humankind through the darkness. Finally, after a long journey, Pakwa reached the edge of the world, where he found a great celestial hearth, an eternal fire burning in the sky.
With his silver feathers, Pakwa gathered tiny sparks from the sacred fire and placed them in a basket. Then, he flew swiftly down to earth, carrying the sparks with him. As he returned to the world, he scattered the sparks across the night sky. Each spark became a twinkling star, illuminating the night with a soft, reassuring light.
When the men first looked up and saw the stars shining in the sky, they were filled with wonder. The stars guided their steps in the darkness and offered them safety during the night. Thanks to Pakwa and the Great Spirit, the men no longer had to fear the night, for they knew that the stars were there to watch over them.
From that day forward, the Algonquins regarded the stars as sacred guides, shards of eternal light sent by the Great Spirit to protect and enlighten the peoples of the earth. Each star in the sky is a flame of the sacred fire, a reminder that light always exists, even in the darkest times.
Creations inspired by the spirit of legends
Each piece is handcrafted on the Nitassinan by the Ilnu craftsman Dave Verreault-Thisselmagan.
Indigenous dreamcatchers
Protection • Dreams • Guidance
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