The Seven Grandfather Teachings: Guiding Principles for a Good Life

by TJ Wallis

The Seven Grandfather Teachings are among the most widely shared Indigenous teachings in Canada. Rooted in Anishinaabe traditions, they offer a set of guiding principles that encourage people to live with respect, honesty, humility, and compassion.

Although the teachings originate from specific Indigenous cultures and may be understood differently among Nations and communities, their wisdom speaks to values that are meaningful for people from all walks of life.

The Seven Grandfather Teachings remind us that how we treat ourselves, others, and the world around us matters. They offer guidance for building strong relationships, healthy communities, and meaningful lives.

What Are the Seven Grandfather Teachings?

The Seven Grandfather Teachings are:

  • Wisdom

  • Love

  • Respect

  • Bravery

  • Honesty

  • Humility

  • Truth

Each teaching represents an important way of living and is often associated with an animal that reflects its qualities.

Wisdom – Beaver

Wisdom is the ability to use knowledge for the benefit of all.

The beaver is often associated with wisdom because of its ability to work diligently and use its skills to create homes, protect its family, and improve its environment.

Wisdom is more than simply knowing facts. It involves understanding how our actions affect others and making choices that contribute to the well-being of the community.

Love – Eagle

Love is often described as knowing peace.

The eagle, which flies high above the earth, is associated with love because it is believed to have a special connection to the Creator.

Love extends beyond affection for family and friends. It includes kindness, compassion, and caring for all living things. Love reminds us that every person has value and deserves to be treated with dignity.

Respect – Buffalo

The buffalo is commonly associated with respect.

For many Indigenous Peoples, the buffalo provided food, clothing, shelter, and tools. Nothing was wasted, and every part of the animal was honoured.

Respect means recognizing the value of all living things and treating others, the land, and ourselves with care and consideration.

Bravery – Bear

Bravery is the courage to face challenges and do what is right, even when it is difficult.

The bear is often associated with bravery because of its strength and protective nature.

True bravery is not the absence of fear. It is the willingness to act with integrity despite fear, uncertainty, or hardship.

Honesty – Sabe

The Sabe, often described as a spirit being or Sasquatch in some teachings, is associated with honesty.

Honesty means being truthful with others and with ourselves. It requires us to recognize our strengths and weaknesses and to act with sincerity.

Living honestly allows us to build trust and strong relationships within our communities.

Humility – Wolf

The wolf is associated with humility because of its strong sense of family and community.

Wolves work together for the benefit of the pack rather than seeking individual recognition.

Humility teaches us that we are not more important than others. It reminds us to appreciate our place within the larger circle of life and to recognize the contributions of those around us.

Truth – Turtle

Truth is often considered the culmination of all the other teachings.

The turtle is associated with truth because it carries its home wherever it goes, symbolizing the enduring nature of wisdom and knowledge.

To live in truth is to practice wisdom, love, respect, bravery, honesty, and humility in our daily lives.

Truth is not simply something we know; it is something we live.

Why the Seven Grandfather Teachings Matter Today

In a world that often feels rushed and divided, the Seven Grandfather Teachings offer a reminder of values that can help strengthen individuals, families, and communities.

They encourage us to:

  • Listen before judging

  • Act with kindness

  • Treat others with respect

  • Take responsibility for our actions

  • Care for the land and all living things

  • Work together for the common good

These teachings are not rules to be mastered but principles to be practiced throughout our lives.

Living the Teachings Every Day

The Seven Grandfather Teachings continue to inspire people of all ages. Whether we are raising children, building relationships, serving our communities, or making everyday decisions, these teachings offer guidance on how to live with integrity and purpose.

While the teachings come from Indigenous knowledge passed down through generations, their message remains timeless:

Live with wisdom.

Lead with love.

Show respect.

Be brave.

Speak honestly.

Practice humility.

Walk in truth.

Together, these teachings help guide us toward a life of balance, responsibility, and connection with all our relations.

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Artwork: Seven Sacred Tipis by Métis / Cree artist Carla Joseph

 

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