Origin of Hopi People - Essay Example

The subject is relevant especially in contemporary society since an academic study of past events and the origin of humanity are critical in enhancing cohesiveness. Hopi people should understand their past dealings and origin to pragmatically define their future. Anthropology enables individuals to establish the meaning of the archaeological sites and cultural practices thus enabling them to nurture the practices (Kuwanwisiwma, 161). The key perspectives of the subject appertain to enhancing understanding of the Hopi people on their origin, the significance of the archaeological artefacts, ancestral sites and cultural practices. This is to; avoid erosion of their social and cultural heritage that contributes to enhancing mutual coexistence. However, critics oppose the understanding and advancement of past dealings asserting that the practices are part of the old order that does not hold relevance in this century.

As noted, Hopi immigrants originated from Sipaapani (place of emergence) and travelled buried and lived in Hopistutskwa-Hopiland with their ancestors. The cultural landscape of the region is identified by landforms that hold great association with deities. The landscape also holds historical events, rivers, springs, shrines and the Itakuku as termed by the Hopi people that mean “our footprints” (Ferguson & Roger, 99). It is imperative to note that the cultural sites and events were crucial in executing traditional rituals including ceremonies.

The footprints that include pottery, stone tools, the ruins of former settlements and diverse artefacts are significant monuments that present undisputed proof of ancestral migration. The ancestral site acted as a land stewardship area where rituals and various social events were taking place (Kuwanwisiwma, 162). Ethically, the cultural and ancestral artefacts should be preserved to enhance the development of social coherence that is necessary for development. This is to; ensure the adoption of common life ideals and social practices that are culturally acceptable.

The execution of the study under the perspectives is primarily set to help equip the Hopi people with the requisite information on their origin and past activities that are fundamental in enhancing their social, cultural and ethical practices (Ferguson & Roger, 99). The understanding of the study should be along archaeological, ancestral, social and cultural lines. In particular, the cultural landscape and events seek to ensure that Hopi people live under strong shared values including common ideals. It also seeks to advance their engagement and knowledge of diverse issues that define the community’s existence. Cultural practices are common norms and values that individuals are under expectation to conform to (Ferguson & Roger, 100). The practice shapes social understanding and preservation of diverse practices that date back from the ancestral days. Imperatively, Hopi people have mixed thoughts or views about their origin with some defining their roots from the ancestral story while others put their beliefs on the spiritual aspects. They assert that their existence is explained through the successful fulfilment of spiritual obligations.

Indeed, understanding one’s origin and ancestral practices is crucial in enhancing societal coherence and social integration. The study of the Hopi's origin based on the archaeological, ancestral and cultural perspectives plays a critical role in advancing understanding of past events. The events and practices define their operations and hold relevance in shaping their lifestyle despite having divergent views and beliefs about their origin. As noted, the understanding of the cultural practices and archaeological sites is to facilitate the preservation of the archaeological sites and contribute to economic growth. Read More