Planet Voodoo 
The Web's Premiere Voodoo Doll Resource Site!
Everything you ever wanted to know about Voodoo dolls but were afraid to ask...
Planet Voodoo The Web's Premiere Voodoo Doll Resource Site! Everything you ever wanted to know about Voodoo dolls but were afraid to ask...
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Native American Fetishes
C ultural Significance, Selection, and CareNative American fetishes can be likened to the amulets, charms, and talismans of other cultures. They are objects that carry mystical significance which can have a direct impact on its possessor. While all Southwestern tribes make and use fetishes, the Zuni and Navajo are the most widely known. When the artist who creates the fetish prays over their work, it is said to release the spirit of the animal into the carving. The animal spirits are said to bring good luck, protection, and guidance to it’s owner. There are six main fetishes that are associated with the six cardinal directions, each of which carry special powers. The North is represented by the mountain lion, the South is represented by the badger, the West belongs to the bear, and the East is represented by the wolf.
Selection Guidelines The most important factors in selecting a fetish are:
 Proper Care The care of a fetish occurs on two levels: the physical and the spiritual. Physically, the fetish should be kept dry and dust free by cleaning it with a soft cloth. On the spiritual level, the fetish needs to be fed cornmeal on a regular basis to ensure its effectiveness. If taken care of and treated properly, the fetish will guide you on the right path of life. Each animal fetish has certain special powers.
Animal Symbolism The following is only a partial list of some of the more common animal fetishes and their significance: Armadillo: keeper of the home, gets things right Badger: helps to achieve goals Bear: strength, protection, insight Beaver: progressive builder, promotes family unity Buffalo: endurance, perseverance Coyote: trickster, the ability to laugh at oneself, humor Eagle: connection to the Divine, transcends personal problems Fox: camouflage, protection Frog: can be petitioned to bring forth abundant rain, good luck Horned Toad: longevity, self-reliance, conservation Horse: innate healing powers, freedom Mole: amplifies connection with the earth, keeper of the underground Mountain Lion: leadership, resourcefulness Owl: keeper of the night, wisdom, intellect, patience, endurance of the mind, controls the dark side of nature, messenger Ram: used to obtain abundant herds Raven: scratch the raven's beak across an afflicted person's skull to release its healing powers Snake: powerful animal symbolizing life, death, and rebirth. To the Aztec, the most sacred because it is the closest to Mother Earth. Turtle: long, meaningful life, purpose Wolf: teacher, survivor, pathfinder Source: The Mystic Voodoo, 2006. Reprinted with permission.
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Copyright 2007 Planet Voodoo. All Rights Reserved.
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