THE CODE OF HANDSOME LAKE • IO3 



To the Creator and the tree : 



It is the will of the Creator 



That a certain tree 



Should flow such water. 



Now may no accidents occur 



To children roaming in the forests. 



Now this day is yours 



May you enjoy it, — this day. 



To the Creator: 



We give thanks, oh God, to you. 

 You who dwell in heaven. 

 We have done our duty 

 You have seen us do it. 

 So. it is done." 



SPECIAL ANNUAL CEREMONIES 



I Da'nondinonnio'' Ede'kwa gaa'kwa', the Sun Dance. 



II Da'nondinonnio'' Soi'ka gaa'kwa', the Moon Dance. 



III Wasaze/ the Thunder Dance. 



I 



1 Da'nondinonnio'' Ende'ka gaa'kwa', the Sun dance, is designed 

 to honor the sun. 



2 This ceremony has no certain time for its celebration but may 

 be called by anyone, at any time, who dreams it necessary for the 

 welfare of the settlement. 



3 The ceremony begins at noon when arrows are shot up toward 

 the sun while the populace shout their war cries. 



4 A fire is built outside and tobacco is thrown by a priest who 

 chants the sun-rite. 



5 Three times during this ceremony a shower of arrows are 

 shot up to the sun accompanied by a chorus of cries, intended to 

 notify him that they are addressing him. 



6 Immediately afterward the Osto'wagowa is engaged in as the 

 only fitting dance to perform before the mighty Sun. 



II 



I Da'nondinonnio'' Soikagaa'kwa', the Moon Dance ceremony, 

 is convened by anyone who dreams it necessary or by the advice of 

 a clairvoyant. 



1 Meaning, Dakota, or Sioux, 



