SIGNS, SYMBOLS, MOTIFS AND TOTEMS Indigenous American Cultural Resiliency Cosmic identity American Systems of Viability, Symbology Pictography Ancestral Technologies, Modern Methods of Language preservation And Modern Art by Joel Rosario Tapia : Casiquan/Cacique/Kasike Tureygua Taino Cay is an expansive exploration into Indigenous American cultural and spiritual systems. Drawing from ancient wisdom and modern practices, the book delves into the symbols, motifs, and totems that have shaped the identities and worldviews of Indigenous peoples across the Americas. It is an essential resource for understanding the profound connections between these cultural artifacts and broader principles of the universe, spirituality, and sociopolitical values.

The book begins with a preface titled “Cognition,” exploring human understanding and the cognitive frameworks guiding Indigenous societies for millennia. Tapia examines DNA as a vessel of ancestral knowledge, alongside discussions on learning styles, energy, and universal laws. Concepts like Ho’oponopono, the Seven Hermetic Principles, and the Twelve Universal Laws are introduced, laying the foundation for discussions on Indigenous worldviews and sociopolitical values.

Readers encounter an in-depth analysis of Sumak Kawsay—a philosophy of living well in harmony with nature. Tapia introduces ancestral disciplines and cosmic systems of balance and viability central to Indigenous knowledge. The Guaico Medicine Wheel and Divine Reflection chapters offer insights into ancient American spiritual systems, highlighting the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of cosmic geography.

The book also explores ancient American systems like Chakana, Tonalamatl, and Planetary Covenant Laws, grounding these in the Absolute Truth and Reality governing Indigenous spirituality. Tapia examines the Taino people, addressing historical mistruths, systemic reclassification, and the significance of names and identities. Chapters on Castas de Raza, Castas de Nacion, and Indigenous Caribbean Island Names offer insights into the impacts of colonization and the ongoing efforts to reclaim and revitalize these identities.

Tapia emphasizes language revitalization as critical to cultural preservation. He includes discussions on the origin and survival of the Taino language, alongside Accelerated Second Language Acquisition (ASLA) methodologies for native language instruction. Contributions from scholars provide historical perspectives and practical approaches to language acquisition. The book also explores modern Taino symbolism, Cemiism, and the evolution of the Taino pictographic alphabet.

The book concludes with sacred prayers and songs integral to Taino spiritual practices, bridging the past and present. Finally, Tapia showcases his artistic work, embodying the rich cultural heritage discussed throughout the book. SIGNS, SYMBOLS, MOTIFS, AND TOTEMS offers a comprehensive and personal exploration of Indigenous American cultural resilience, testifying to the enduring spirit of Indigenous peoples and their profound connection to the cosmos.

Publisher: ‎Cibuco Bayamon Clan Tribal Trust (August 26, 2024)

Language: ‎English

Paperback ‎245 pages

ISBN-13 ‎979-8218497811

Reading age ‎Baby – 18 years

Item Weight ‎1.58 pounds

Dimensions ‎8.5 x 0.58 x 11 inches