Black Elk, a revered Oglala Lakota medicine man, left behind words that still echo with wisdom today. His quotes touch on life, nature, spirituality, and the human experience. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, reflection, or a deeper connection to the world, his words have something to offer.
Here are some of the most powerful Black Elk quotes, organized into themes for easy reading.
Wisdom on Life and Spirituality
Black Elk’s words often reflect the deep spiritual connection he had with the world. His teachings remind us to look beyond the surface.
🔹 “The first peace, which is the most important, is that which comes within the souls of people when they realize their relationship, their oneness, with the universe and all its powers.”
🔹 “Everything the Power of the World does is done in a circle.”
🔹 “A man who has a vision is not able to use the power of it until after he has performed the vision on earth for the people to see.”
🔹 “Grown men can learn from very little children, for the hearts of little children are pure.”
Ever felt like life moves in cycles? Black Elk saw the world as an endless circle—birth, growth, death, and renewal.
Nature and the Sacred
For Black Elk, nature wasn’t just scenery—it was alive, sacred, and full of lessons.
🔹 “The earth is the mother of all people, and all people should have equal rights upon it.”
🔹 “The sky is sacred, and the earth is sacred, and every living thing is precious.”
🔹 “The birds and the animals are our brothers and sisters, for they too love their young and desire to live.”
🔹 “We should understand well that all things are the works of the Great Spirit.”
Imagine standing on a mountain, feeling the wind, and knowing everything around you is connected. That’s the essence of his teachings.
Courage and Strength
Life isn’t always easy, but Black Elk’s words remind us to stay strong.
🔹 “A very great vision is needed, and the man who has it must follow it as the eagle seeks the deepest blue of the sky.”
🔹 “If the vision was true and mighty, as I know, it is true and mighty yet.”
🔹 “The power of the world always works in circles, and everything tries to be round.”
🔹 “You have noticed that everything an Indian does is in a circle, and that is because the Power of the World always works in circles.”
Ever faced a challenge that felt too big? Black Elk would say to trust your vision and keep moving forward.
Unity and Humanity
Black Elk believed in the power of unity—people coming together in peace.
🔹 “Peace will come to the hearts of men when they realize their oneness with the universe.”
🔹 “All things are our relatives; what we do to everything, we do to ourselves.”
🔹 “The good road and the road of difficulties you have made to cross; and where they cross, the place is holy.”
🔹 “The nation’s hoop is broken and scattered. There is no center any longer, and the sacred tree is dead.”
What if we treated every person—and every living thing—as family? His words push us to think bigger.
Dreams and Visions
Black Elk’s visions shaped his life and teachings. He saw dreams as messages from the spirit world.
🔹 “The world you see is just a movie in your mind.”
🔹 “The six grandfathers have placed in this world many things, all of which should be happy.”
🔹 “A man who has a vision is not able to use the power of it until after he has performed the vision on earth for the people to see.”
🔹 “Sometimes dreams are wiser than waking.”
Ever had a dream that felt more real than reality? Black Elk would say it’s worth paying attention to.
Final Thoughts
Black Elk’s words are timeless. They remind us to respect nature, seek inner peace, and honor our connections with others.
Here are a few more gems to reflect on:
🔹 “The heart is a sanctuary at the center of which there is a little space, wherein the Great Spirit dwells.”
🔹 “The sacred hoop of my people was one of the many hoops that made one circle, wide as daylight and as starlight.”
🔹 “The Power of the World always works in circles.”
Which quote speaks to you the most? Let these words guide you, challenge you, and maybe even change the way you see the world.
