The spirit of the Great Bear

Long ago, when the stars were still the eyes of the ancients, a majestic bear lived in the heart of the northern mountains. She was called Mashku , the Great Bear. She watched over the forests, the rivers, and the people, a silent guardian of harmony among all beings.

Each winter, she descended to the valleys to teach patience and rest, then returned to her lair when the light of spring returned. But one day, men forgot the sacred bond that united them to the Earth. They hunted without gratitude, took without giving, and the silence of respect was replaced by the sound of hunger.

Then Mashku awoke. She approached the villages, her footsteps echoing like thunder drums. Beneath the icy sky, she raised her eyes to the moon and murmured a prayer. The snow began to sparkle around her, and her spirit soared on the north wind.

Since that night, the elders say that the Great Bear ascended to the heavens. Its silhouette can still be seen tracing the seasons among the stars, reminding those who observe it that power only has meaning when guided by wisdom.

When the constellation of the Great Bear appears in the winter sky, it is the spirit of Mashku that watches over us — guardian of respect, memory, and Mother Earth.

🌾 Spiritual teaching

This legend invites us to rediscover the balance between strength and gentleness, power and gratitude. The spirit of the Great Bear teaches protection, healing, and responsibility towards the living world.