Spirit of the Seasons, part 19: The Spirit of Niibin
- zhaawano
- Jun 21
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 2
Baashkaabigonii-giizis (Blooming Moon) / Ode'imini-giizis (Strawberry Moon) - June 21, 2025
Today, Gimishoomisinaan Giizis, Our Grandfather the Sun, as it journeys along the waabano miikana, the sacred path in the sky that stretches from east to west, reaches its highest point in the sky, representing the peak of its power. The Anishinaabeg call this event Gimishoomisinaan Niimi'idiwin, Dance of Our Grandfather. This time is of great significance for various Anishinaabe ceremonies and gatherings, including those of Waabanoowiwin, the Medicine Lodge of Dawn. Annually, around this period, a summer solstice ceremony occurs, known as niibin (summer), starting with purification in a madoodiswan (sweat lodge). The ceremony begins at dusk with the lighting of the mishi-ishkode or sacred fire and lasts for four days. It honors and celebrates teachings and community strength and is usually the most attended Waabanoowiwin ceremony.
Traditionally, when the Sun reaches its zenith, the Peoples of the Anishinaabeg and Ininewak (Cree) engage in a practice known as zaagidinanowin, or "putting out." This involves opening their medicine bags to cleanse their valuables, inviting the Universe in, and allowing the Sun to purify their ceremonial items—such as the Grandfather pipe—and tools, thereby continuing the walk of the original human beings since the dawn of time...
Illustration: Gimishoomisinaan Niimi'idiwin ©2025 Zhaawano Giizhik
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