Native American Religious Traditions

Intro to Indigenous Religions

Film Focus: In this episode of Religion for Breakfast, Andrew Henry, in conversation with Abel Gomez, explores indigenous religious from an academic standpoint, noting that one must take into account many diverse factors when studying this broad group of religious practices.

Text Focus: Pages 512–521

Discussion Questions:

1. When we refer to “indigenous religions,” to what are we referring? Is it one unified belief system or many varied belief systems? Explain.
2. What are the 3 “R” words that Andrew Henry recommends using to help one understand the identity of indigenous peoples? Explain how he uses each term.
3. What are the 3 “P” words that Andrew Henry recommends using to help one understand indigenous religions? Explain how he uses each term.
4. Explain the role of land in many indigenous religions.
5. Would you describe indigenous religions as archaic? Why or why not?
6. How can we show greater respect to indigenous people and their religions?

*Permission to link to this video for use in the classroom as part of the accompanying lesson has been granted by the producer.