Spirit Animals and the Wheel of Life

by Bennett, Hal Zina

• ISBN13: 9781571742162
• ISBN10: 1571742166
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2001-01-01
• Publisher: Hampton Roads Pub Co Inc

Summary

Though our ancient ancestors had a deep spiritual connection to the natural world, most modern humans have lost that connection, resulting in ever-increasing ecological assaults on our planet. As environmental quality continues to worsen, we must find a way to spiritually reconnect with Mother Earth--before it is too late. "Ecospiritualism" is a form of spirituality that embraces, and takes responsibility for, the natural world we live in. One of the most practical, enjoyable, and simple ways of reclaiming our ecospiritual connection with Mother Earth is journeying with the spirits of animals just as our ancestors did thousands of years ago. Animals, most intimately connect with Mother Earth, are the perfect guides to the ancient wisdom we have lost. Mole, eagle, badger, wolf, bear, mountain lion--each animal has its place on the sacred medicine wheel; each has knowledge vital to the future of our Earth and to rediscovering our rightful place in it. In Spirit Animals, author Hal Zina Bennett offers an accessible form of "spiritual orienteering" in which personal power animals are the guides and teachers, and shamanism is the means by which we work with and learn from them.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Opening Inward	vii
An Ecospiritual Journey into Space	1	(10)
Recognizing Animal Wisdom	11	(17)
Seeking a Different Path	28	(17)
The Ecospiritual Wheel	45	(28)
Personal Power Animals	73	(19)
Prophecy and Divination at the Edge	92	(30)
The Metaphysics of the Wheel of Life	122	(17)
Daily Practice	139	(8)
Appendix A: Smudging	147	(4)
Appendix B: A Veterinarian Reflects on Human Animal Relationships	151	(14)
Annotated Biblography	165	(7)
Index	172	(3)
About the Author	175