Lenape mythology

Lenape mythology is based on polytheism.

Kishelemukong is the creator god, not involved in the daily affairs of the Lenape. Instead, he directed the manitowak, the life-spirits of all living things, which were created by Kishelemukong. The manitowak were venerated in ceremonies, rituals, dreams, visions, games and ohtas (see below), as well as through the interventions of the Metinuwak, who were healers, spiritual and emotional guides, and religious leaders; they could communicate with the manitowak.

An ohta is a wooden doll carved annually and that were said to have remarkable powers of healing and luck.

A nianque is an animal guide, such as in a vision quest.

Further reading

• Harrington, Mark (1921). Religion and Ceremonies of the Lenape. Museum of the American Indian, Heye Foundation, 1921. 
• Lenik, Edward (2002). Picture Rocks: American Indian Rock Art in the Northeast Woodlands. UPNE. ISBN 1-58465-197-0.