102 INDIANS OF THE SOUTHWEST. 
self-denials to absolute abstinence of four days’ duration 
according to the seriousness of the people’s need. He 
is the mouthpiece of the divinities whom he is called 
upon by the tribe or by individuals to consult. Because 
he is believed to speak by divine authority his influence 
is very great. He names his successor and nominates 
the civil officers of the village. He is not supposed, 
however, to enter into petty quarrels nor to take part 
in minor discussions in the council. That he may be 
Z PIE. a a 
=< 
i, 
ore 
= — 
ee 
Hopi Prayer Offerings. 
free to devote himself to such a life his wants are 
provided for by his people who supply him with wood 
and cultivate a field for his benefit. He has one or two 
assistants from whom his successor is chosen. 
There are many societies more or less secret, which 
have the knowledge of certain prayers, songs, and rites, 
which they are expected to use for the public benefit. 
The most important is a group of societies which 
are especially devoted to ceremonies leading to success 
in war. Among the Sia these societies are those of the 
Panther, Bear, and Knife. Their leader, the war 
priest, ranks next to the cacique in religious importance. 
