Categories

Ceremonies, Traditional Lifeways

Tribes

Navajo

Video Presenter

Jonah Yellowman

Building a Traditional Hogan

The hogan was the primary traditional dwelling for the Navajo people. While their use as dwellings has dwindled, many hogans are maintained for ceremonial purposes. These eight-sided, single room buildings represent a harmony between Mother Earth and Father Sky. Constructed of wood and earth, they have a single door facing east to welcome the morning sun. There is an opening in the center of the roof that represents the sky and serves as ventilation.

Jonah Yellowman is a spiritual leader who provides healing ceremonies for people across the Navajo Nation. He is constructing a Navajo ceremonial hogan where he can practice his spiritual traditions.

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