Talk:Lakota mythology

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The comment below was originally posted in the article namespace at Yuwipi. After being listed on VfD, it was moved here for discussion.

As a native Lakota speaker with CRST, Lakhota.com, I can tell you the word "Yuwipi" means "many little clear stones." These stones can be found on the top of ant hills, and have been used in a Lakhota ceremony called "Yuwipi," a Sacred work (Wakan Wicoan) where the dreamer is freed by magic. A Lakhota medicine man is called, "Pejuta wicasa."

--Kipruss3 16:47, 11 July 2006 (UTC)I have added a paragraph on the front of the Lakota Mythology page, highlighting the concern raised by scholars like Ella Cara Deloria and later Vine Deloria Jr., questioning the validity of Walker's rather "inventive" mythology that has a decidedly "European" cast and even reflects Greek Tragedy. James Walker who first presents this Pantheon is not a Lakota speaker, and uses only one source, George Sword for these stories. When Ms. Deloria (1920's), a native lakota speaker and known linguist, began asking elders of these gods mentioned in the Walker texts, the answers consistently came back that no one had heard such nonsense. Also, the gods, as reflected in the Walker texts, are inconsistent with the understanding of the root words (Skan - from Taku Skan Skan, or "endless movement/mover") that basic knowledge of Lakota would call into question.

I think this article should be reworked to allow Walker's version, but to also include the myths as described by other contemporary authors, especially if Lakota authors can be found.