The Anishinaabe were guided in history by stories and teachings known as the Seven Fire prophecies. Long ago, certain individuals (prophets) had visions of the future which came in the form of chapters or “Fires”.
In these seven prophecies, which came long before the first arrival of European settlers, the Anishinaabe were told of the coming of the “light-skinned race”. The prophecies also stated that the Anishinaabe ways would be lost. One eerie line from the prophecy states: “The rivers shall run with poison and the fish would become unfit to eat.” The prophecies speak about a great migration of the Anishinaabe, how their original spiritual way, the Midewiwin, would be depleted, and how they would find their homeland in the Great Lakes region. It also speaks about the struggles the First Nations would have stating: “The cup of life will almost become the cup of grief.”
In the last prophecy, the Seventh Fire, the story speaks of the renewal of the Anishinaabe people. Many contend that the current generation are the people of the Seventh Fire. It speaks of a great peace and reconciliation between the First Nations and the settlers. It speaks directly of a re-kindling of old flames. If these good choices are made, this will light the Eighth and final Fire, an eternal fire of peace, love brotherhood and sisterhood.
Beginning tomorrow at 9 p.m. on CBC, Manitoba Anishinaabe Wab Kinew will present a four-part mini-series entitled “8th Fire”. The documentary will examine the ongoing relationship, current issues, stereotypes and Aboriginal history. As a First Nations rapper and filmmaker, he will be sure to present these subjects in an interesting and humorous way. As the Anishnaabe prophecy goes, this Seventh Generation now has the opportunity to reconcile with the “settler” community and together build the “8th Fire” of peace, justice and harmony.
8th FIRE
A Four Part Mini-series
Beginning this Thursday, January 12, 2012 at 9 p.m.
on CBC
http://www.cbc.ca/doczone/8thfire/index.html