Native American Sun Symbols

Views and beliefs surrounding the sun symbols vary according to region.

Unanimously, the sun was of great import. Provider of warmth, facilitator of crops, and the great bearer of light - it is no wonder this symbol finds its way on so many Native American artifacts and artwork.

Below are a few of Native American sun symbols along with their symbol meanings according to each perspective tribe. Or, click here to read an essay about the symbolism of the sun.

Kwakiutl Sun:
Legend states that the Sun was chief released from a box by Raven, the Sun Chief inhabited the sky and it was believed he could be reached by climbing a chain of arrows. He descended by sliding down its long rays. The Sun represents abundant lifeand its warmth radiates with healing and peace.


Common Native American Sun Symbol:
This is one of the most common symbols among all Native American Indian tribes. You will note this particular sun design has seven rays. Each ray represents the seven energy centers within human beings, and also the development of each of these energy centers. This symbol identifies the healing arts, and represents a peace loving person.


Navajo Sun Symbol:
Circular Feather Arrangements are found in the artwork of the Plains Indians. This design is Navajo. These symbols are used to record war stories or heroic events. However, they are also related to the sun and directly connected to creation.


Hopi Sun Symbol:
A symbol of creative and natural energy. The supreme god due to the Hopi's dependence upon it for the growth of corn, and other sustaining crops. The sun symbol represents the heart of the cosmos and deals with vitality, growth, and passion.


Mayan Sun Symbol:
A Mayan symbol of ascension, clarity and awareness. Focus upon this symbol facilitates enlightenment. The sun was highly regarded by the Mayan civilization. It brought about high yielding crops, and the sun appeared during time of greatest productivity. Internally, the sun brings about philosophical productivity. Bringing the sun into our meditations warms our consciousness, and allows our divinity to blossom.


Sun Kachina:
From the Hopi tribe, Kachinas are the spirits of the invisible life forces. They are supernatural beings who serve as divine messengers between people and gods. The Sun Kachina seen here is a symbol of life, growth, strength of spirit, and abundance.

Native American Symbols Main Page

Native American Animal Symbols

Hopi Symbols

Kachina Properties

Sioux Symbols

Mayan Symbols

Native American Mandalas

Identifying Animal Tracks

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