About the Apache Sunrise Dance

The traditional Sunrise Dance is rarely performed today, but once held great cultural significance for the Apache tribe.

History of

The Sunrise Dance is a traditional puberty ceremony for young girls of the Apache tribe. This ceremony, called na'ii'ees, is a reenactment of the myth of Changing Woman. According to this myth, Changing Woman bore two children. One was born of the Sun, and the other of Water Old-Man. These children were responsible for ridding the earth of many evils. Changing Woman possess the power of longevity. During her na'ii'ees ritual, and for four days after, the pubescent girl is believed to possess the powers of Changing Woman.

The Facts

A girl's na'ii'ees requires preparation of a special ceremonial dance area. This area will be covered with blankets and a ceremonial buckskin. It is then surrounded by baskets filled with candy and fruit, and four drums. Specially prepared food will be presented to the girl and her family on the night before her ceremony. On the night before her na'ii'ees, the girl will perform a dance in her costume, prepared for just this occasion.

Time Frame

The na'ii'ees ceremony consists of eight phases, each defined by a specific song. These songs are performed by the tribe's medicine man. In the first phase, the girl will dance with her companion. In the second phase, she kneels and sways from side to side with the song. Third, the girl will lie down and have her legs, back and shoulders massaged to make them strong. In the fourth and fifth phases, she runs around the dance floor signifying life stages. During the sixth phase, the baskets of candy and fruit are poured over the girl's head. The seventh phase is a blessing on the girl, and the final phase in a conclusion of the ceremony.

Function

The na'ii'ees functions as an introduction into womanhood for the girl. Its purpose is to bestow her with strength and fortune throughout her life. It is important to note that this fortunes does not involve material wealth so much as strong relationships with friends and family.

Significance

The Apache have a saying, "Changing Woman never died and she will always live." For four days after her na'ii'ees, the young girl is believed to posses the powers of Changing Woman. She is believed to posses the power to heal the sick by holding her hands over them. Until the end of these four days, she is considered holy.

Resources

• The Sunrise Dance