The Seven Generations and The Seven Grandfather Teachings

by James Vukelich

Discover indigenous wisdom for a life well lived in “The Seven Generations and the Seven Grandfather Teachings.” Based on ancient teachings from the Anishinaabe/Ojibwe people, this spiritual translation of the sacred laws guides us toward Mino-bimaadiziwin, "the good life" – a life of harmony, free from contradiction or conflict.

Prepare to embark on a path to peace, balance and personal growth where ancestral knowledge offers timeless lessons for transforming our lives and the lives of future generations.

Genres: Nonfiction, Indigenous, Spirituality, Philosophy, Native American, History, Indigenous History

64 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 21, 2023

About the author

James Vukelich Kaagegaabaw, a descendant of Turtle Mountain, is a renowned international speaker, author educator and digital creator. His keen insights were developed through speaking with and recording elders and native language speakers across North America as part of the Ojibwe Language Dictionary Project.

James is a passionate advocate for sharing how to live a life of ‘mino-bimaadiziwin,’ the good life. For over twenty years, he has facilitated community language tables, consulted with public and private organizations on language and cultural programs, and traveled internationally as a keynote speaker. He has been featured in numerous publications, podcasts, radio & television programs.

James lives in the Twin Cities, Minnesota with his wife and son.

Reviews

[Dianna Dotson · Rating 5 out of 5]

James Vukelich writing of the Seven Generations and the Seven Grandfather Teachings is in depth yet easy to understand. This book shows us the wisdom of the Anishinaabe people and the beauty of the Ojibwe language. What a wonderful world it would be if all people practiced these teachings.
I had the privilege of reading an advanced copy of James’s work. I will be buying books for myself, my grandchildren and others. One reading of his book will never be enough.
Thank you James Vukelich for your passion to teach us the past, present and future of the Ojibwe people.

[Garnet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such Thoughtfulness

The author writes from a blended combination of knowledge and the heart. Though the concepts may seem simple, he provides an extremely well researched detour that deepens one’s realization of what is important in life. I can’t imagine how much time it took to write this thorough book.

[Ishita · Rating 4 out of 5]

A profound and meditative introduction to the Anishinaabe philosophy of how to live mino-bimaadiziwin, the good life. Kaagegaabaw uses the etymology of the Ojibwe words for each of the Seven Grandfather Teachings to explain their embedded traditional knowledge. Grateful for this reminder that everything comes from the land, and that to live a balanced life is to live at the center of your wheel.

[kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been following this author on TikTok and enjoy his teachings. I was very excited when he wrote this book. I am not Native American, but I do feel connected because I am living on their land. The author is very welcoming and considers everyone a friend and relative. His teaching is very gentle and inclusive. I like learning about the Ojibwe culture through the language words that he introduces. He teaches so you understand. There is a depth and complexity to the language that you can’t even imagine. The spirituality comes through of the native peoples from Minnesota. I hope this culture and the language are never lost.

[Lynn LeRoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Ojibway word of the day and I love these teachings!

[Karen Ehrens · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Seven Generations and The Seven Grandfather Teachings is a gift for everyone of life lessons from an Ojibwe perspective. Seven Generations… summarizes so well many years of teaching from James Vukelich Kaagegaabaw. I first came to learn from James over digital media through his “Ojibwe Word of the Day” that brings so much information about words and phrases with spelling, pronunciation, background, and visual depictions.

I do not pretend that I will be able to learn the Ojibwe language well enough to speak it, but James’ teachings about life through language help me better understand Indigenous people who have been my neighbors.

In my public health work, it is important for me to seek to understand intergenerational trauma, as well as intergenerational resilience and strength. It is refreshing to learn from people in cultures, including Ojibwe culture, who recognize and respect the relationships between the earth and everything of it. In Seven Generations… we learn the word part “aanik-” means “to be interconnected.” And truly, we are all connected. I feel more connected and understanding of the long traditions and connections to future generations that are highlighted in the book and through James’ online teachings.

I look forward to The Seven Generations and The Seven Grandfather Teachings in audiobook form. I appreciate listening to the spoken language with its intonation, rhythm, depth, and emotion. I think everyone can learn from this book.

[Laura Knaapen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick read but a lot to think about. I didn’t realize the seven generations was you, three forward, and three back. Not just looking forward but considering past generations. The seven grandfather teachings were excellent! Truth, Humility, Respect, Love, Courage, Honesty, Wisdom. The linguistic definition of each was not that interesting, but their underlying meanings provide great life lessons. It’s about balance and making sure your actions match your words. You can provide positive affect to future generations and also help to heal the pain or sins of prior generations. We’re all connected. I wish we could all live this way.

[Jacki Mitchell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned a lot from this book. The take home is that USA peoples needs to study and learn from the wisdom of the indigenous ancients, including the Anishinaabe people. I especially appreciated Chapter 2 (in Part 1) where he discussed historical aspects and the unfortunate events that the US Government did to the indigenous people.

Themes in the book: cooperation, reverence for life, interconnectedness, wisdom of elders

If you love linguistics, you will love this book like I did. And the way he used it to teach the Anishinaabe life philosophy is wonderful.

What I disliked: I would call this a "booklet" and not a book. The Introduction and Part I left me hungering for more. I felt like Part 2 was very brief and it left me hanging. I hope he writes another book and gives us more wisdom and saves this language from being lost into the void.

[angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very short and accessible primer on Anishinaabe Ojibwe philosophy and language — specifically, the concept that each person’s actions affect seven generations of people (the present generation, the three preceding generations, and the three succeeding generations); and the seven principles to live a good life.

I found the discussions of Ojibwe etymology most interesting. As the author says, being able “to understand the meaning of certain words, not just the one-to-one English translation” allows one “to understand the thoughts and beliefs of the people who created and speak that language” — a language that was spoken “by someone who saw woolly mammoths” roam the earth.

I wish the author included some thoughts on how to apply these teachings to modern life; but that is possibly beyond the scope/goal of this book.

[McKenzie Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this up for an upcoming book club at work, and thoroughly enjoyed learning more about Ojibwe culture and the motivations behind living a good life -- "good" referring to both a life that is happy and joyful, and one that is inherently positive and uplifts one's surroundings.
I enjoyed the author's perspective as his writing progresses through the book, letting us in on his own journey with truly learning what these words mean beyond their literal translations that he (and we as readers) learn are merely a fraction of their full impact.
I feel I will revisit this book often in the future to reread the stories used to demonstrate the Seven Grandfather Teachings and hope to use their perspectives in my own life.

[Niki Monague · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ⭐️

As someone who is trying to connect with spirit more recently I couldn’t have picked a better time to gift myself this book. James takes us on a journey where we learn about the seven generations and seven grandfather teachings, guiding us towards Mno Bimaadziwin “the good life”.

[Meryah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recommend audiobooking. The authors reading felt like a conversation with a new friend. Short in length but deep in content to digest.

[Kaya Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

we are inexplicably connected !!!!
i loveeed the deconstruction of ojibwe language. beautiful wisdom

[Colombe Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I felt there was so much good information and a wonderful look into the indigenous culture. bit, I found myself wanting the author to go even deeper into the teachings.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, James Vukelich

This is a book of teachings to read, study, and inwardly digest. I will be sharing this with all of my relatives.

[Riley Dunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love being Ojibwe, will definitely take the 7 Generations into account going forward in life. Big fan of James

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly thank you for freely sharing this book, your words, your culture with us inviting us to read your book prior to publication. I feel a honoured to be invited to be a part of your writing process and in a small way, your life’s journey.

The importance of language in culture is fascinating to me and your words and stories tickled my heart with understanding, warmth and delight. Your words help people make sense of the way life should be lived, not only individually but together with all people. Your interpretation of language as related to culture invites exploration and I delighted in searching for meaning beyond the words.

Language lost is culture lost. Language found is culture found. Language is living life found.

The storytelling aspect within the book enhances the meaning of words in a very real way. They allow the reader to picture the story in their mind deepening the meaning of the words. One of my favourites is the woman who after days away from the warring nations, stays under the water breathing through the reeds, receives a vision of a drum and then emerges to tell the tribe leaders to use the drum to create peace between them.

The chapter on Courage resonated with me. Strong heart. Living with honesty and compassion. I loved the chapter on wisdom and intelligence .. “Waa”. The aurora borealis and the firefly.

This book is truly an inspiration, inviting one to unfold their life, to learn and to reflect. It invites a person to think of themselves as part of an evolving journey. It explains also that, how we live life, not only affects ourselves but those who have been before and those who are yet to come. It opens us to really “see” how we are all connected: all people, the animals and the earth.

It is good.

Thank you, James.
Liz Watson
Burlington, ON CANADA

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Seven Generations and The Seven Grandfather Teachings takes us on a journey through culture and language, knowing that each culture, each language is born of rich experience and unique sense of place, with threads full of interconnectedness and meaning. From something as tiny as a double helix of DNA, our lives stretch both forwards and backwards into immeasurable time. What is our legacy from our ancestors? What will be the legacy we leave our great-great-grandchildren?

James’ seven Wisdom Teachings have much in common with other spiritual traditions, but adds something so important for our time:
“The moment we realize other beings give their lives so that we can survive, we begin to take only what we need for food, clothing, lodging, and medicine, and leave the rest behind. This is how we go easy on our relatives.”

Through powerful stories, James weaves our understandings of our humanity with all its strengths and failings together to uplift our hearts to a common good.

[Briana V · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars. I wanted to like this so much but I just kept fining myself wishing we had gone deeper on almost every topic. I get its supposed to be like an overview but even within that framing I wished things had been expanded on even a bit more. Hopefully there will be a follow up one day that expands on these topics more.

[Sean Herriott · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is both simple and profound, as it reflects Ojibwa teachings that seem simple, but become richer and more meaningful as Vukelich unpacks not only these core teachings, but also the long history and deep cultural roots from which they grew. The key to understanding the richness of the Seven Grandfather Teachings is understanding the Ojibwa language. He says that “we are dealing with a complicated, sophisticated, elegant language that has laser-like precision.”

As Vukelich explains the concept of the seven generations—that everything one does reverberates down seven generations, and also back seven generations—and the Seven Grandfather Teachings, he carefully unpacks the language in a way that is accessible and illuminating. He looks at the linguistic roots of the various teaching, as well as the “spiritual meaning” of each word or phrase. The spiritual meaning of the word, as he explains it, is the deeper, richer implications of the concept beyond the literal or commonly understood meaning of the words.

This book is not specifically about Anishanaabe ceremonies or the specific religious practices of the people (and it would be inappropriate to describe many of them in a book meant for anyone to read); the concept of The Seven Generations and the Richness of The Seven Grandfather Teachings are the foundation of the Ojibwa worldview and drove their entire culture. These are universal truths that can be embraced no matter your religion or personal experience. He sheds light on generational trauma, and points to a path toward generational healing.

This book offers insights into the language and culture of a great Indigenous tribe, and also offers foundational teachings that can help anyone live more in peace and harmony with themselves, fellow human beings, and the natural world. The book is short—less than 90 pages—which invites repeated reading and deeper study of the beautiful, universal truths it holds for anyone who wants to understand embrace them.

I loved this book, and I love the vision it offers of “The Good Life,” the Anishanaabe concept of a life lived with integrity and balance.

[SunshineAndSunflowers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Boozhoo Aaniin! This book is beautifully written and gifted to us with such respect. I deeply enjoyed the use of Ojibwe words and the explanations of what they truly mean instead of the word to word translation. It is so difficult with Ojibwe since it is such a rich and deeply impactful language; it is so often not done justice. I’m so grateful to have had the honor to learn and practice this language growing up. It’s a privilege to see another revival of the language on a larger scale. The author of this translation and explanation has been given an incredible gift in simplifying and explaining these teachings.
I had learned these teachings in passing from friends and their families growing up and it was emotional to hear them laid out so lovingly. I am not of the tribes, but I had friends who pulled me into it and made me family. I’ve seen these teachings my whole life and the deep spirituality of the language and way of living has guided me in times I didn’t have guidance. I deeply feel that this should be read and practiced by all people. I am a Muslim and these practices resonate with me now just as they did then. These are gifts to the people. I hope many others benefit and appreciate this work. It truly deserves acknowledgment, appreciation and teaching. It is not a book to be read or listened to once, but referenced and practiced as a way of seeking a better way to grow and live. “O humanity! Indeed, We created you from a male and a female, and made you into peoples and tribes so that you may ˹get to˺ know one another. Surely the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous among you. Allah is truly All-Knowing, All-Aware.” Holy Quran 49:13
Miigwech 💚 -Ozaawaa Memengwaa

[Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

I borrowed this on a whim when I saw that this was available via Kindle Unlimited. I have heard of the author, was unfamiliar with his work, did not know what to expect, so I went into this book in the dark. Author Vukelich shares wisdom from the Anishinaabe/Ojibwe and how it guides him towards "the good life" as it directs his conduct and behavior.

It is a relatively short book (64 pages) that dedicates a chapter to each concept while discussing his history and background. His parents and grandparents were forced into residential boarding schools, where language, culture, identity and more were lost, forcibly repressed, etc. so this also covers the concepts of intergenerational trauma. This is not covered in depth but this is a part of his writing.

Overall I thought it was interesting, although probably not for me. It did remind me of other books I have read about Indigenous/Native languages and the stories of people reclaiming/learning them or recording them in some way for history, etc. so I thought that was interesting. I was also happy to read a book that is not necessarily self-help (although you could read it that way) and one of hope.

As mentioned, it is a relatively short book that is now available in paperback. It is probably not for everyone but if you are interested in the teachings, want to see what Vukelich has to see, see this from a different perspective, etc. it might be a good read. I would certainly recommend this as a compliment to other "self-help" books if only to compliment those texts (but again, this is not classified as such).

Borrowed via Kindle Unlimited and that was best for me.

[Ryen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Seven Generations and the Seven Grandfather Teachings is a beautiful book, in both the wisdom it contains, and the clarity of the writing.
James Vukelich explains the seven teachings through stories, history, and analysis of the shared morphemes that illuminate the deeper meanings of words.

As a poet, I was fascinated by the precision of these definitions. The different types of Love, for example. The search for clues to understand these words redefines the way we might imagine the foundational values like “truth,” “courage,” “humility,” that cultural patterns are built around. It’s amazing to be given a glimpse into the philosophy and worldview passed down through the subtle structure of this language, and more than ever I want to learn about it.

Each chapter delves into the way these words are connected to the Anishinaabe Ojibwe language, people, and world through time. Despite their meaningfulness, the chapters are not long-winded. They introduce the topics in a way that’s approachable for readers of any age group.

Occasionally I will find a work of art, a film, a story, that I have to share with everyone I love. This was one of those. I reading sections and sending them out with ideas, questions, connections to previous conversations with friends and family. I am lucky to have others in my life who are passionate about the beauty of learning and language, and all these things felt reignited as I progressed through the chapters. I hope Vukelich will continue to write books, and share insights through the Anishinaabe Ojibwe language.

[Laurisa Brandt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this in about an hour, and took a little time to pause and reflect. I even cried a little at the beautiful simplicity and profundity that James presents in his teaching.

The tone of this book is full of love, which I felt the moment I pulled the book from its Amazon shipping mailer.

James leads us easily from one topic to another in a very easy to understand, clear-spoken manner. Nothing is jumbled, convoluted, or repeated too often. There is no beating around the bush.

The book starts by teaching us about the importance of the Seven Generations and then teaches us each of the seven character virtues necessary to have a life of balance, peace, and harmony.

This does not come across a spirituality, self-help book. I read it from a Christian perspective and found it very lovely and inspirational. There were also similarities in Ojibwe beliefs and language to what Christianity has been given from its Judaic roots.
I will be recommending this book as often as I can.
My favorite pages were: 36, 63, and 68.
Page 36 spoke of the eternal moving through the impermeant, and the Ojibwe way of saying that a dying person is "going home." They recognize that our spirits arrive here, experience a human condition, and then return to the Creator they came out from.

Overall, this book helped me appreciate the beauty of a Native American language I had never interacted with before. And I'm so glad there are people like James working to preserve their language and culture for us to enjoy. That is true resilience, courage, and love.

[Kim Shay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vukelich discusses the seven grandfather teachings, truth, humility, respect, love, courage, honesty, and wisdom by first taking apart the morphemes which make of the Ojibwe words. He then briefly unpacks what each of them mean. There are some similarities between the English words and what is meant in the Ojibwe understanding, but there are shades of difference.

For example, wisdom is more than just good thinking of making right choices. It is about seeing the path ahead. There is a morpheme in the Objiwe word for wisdom, “nibwaakaawin” that means “to see.” It’s more than intelligence. It’s about seeing the good path ahead.

One of the most meaningful aspects of Indigenous spirituality is the principle of “all my relatives,” where the interconnectedness of life is emphasized. And it is not just meant biological relatives, but everything; the earth, creatures, animals. That principle is rejected by evangelical Christianity, which is odd, considering that the Genesis account teaches we are created from the dust of the earth. I find that principle is far more encompassing than simply, “love your neighbour.” The principle of interconnectedness means we value these relationships; we value people. Before we can love our neighbours, we must love ourselves, and vice-versa.

Evangelical Christianity can learn a a lot from the principles of the 7 grandfather teachings. Sadly, most will call it heresy or paganism despite those teachings pre-dating Christianity.

[Michelle Osburn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. The ancient wisdom that it encompasses is timeless, and reads like a love letter to both our ancestors, or those who have walked before us, and to our future generations, who will walk after and hopefully continue to renew the connection with ‘all of our relatives.’
Having Citizen Potawatomi ancestry (originally from the Great Lakes region in the U.S. and Canada) I felt a special connection with these teachings. It is quite humbling to think of our ancestors hoping and praying for future generations that they would never meet. I also appreciate the author’s way of communicating. Although he discusses the goal and conditions of ‘Indian’ boarding schools, he does so to inform not to accuse. Being a descendant of students who attended Carlisle and Chilocco, I feel that it’s ok to empathize with the conditions that those relatives endured,without having to condemn my ancestors who immigrated to the U.S. What really is evident, and stands out to me the most, is the genuine way in which this book is written;with humility and gratitude, and from the heart.
It’s really a challenge to convey the beauty that is within the covers of this book. It’s truly something that you should experience personally. I will re-read and refer to this book again.

[Melissa Valant · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I want to extend my thanks to James for the privilege of an advanced copy of his book to read - chi miigwech!
This book is pefect for anyone on any part of their Indigenous learning journey, who wants to introduce themselves to the Teachings of the Indigenous community. These seven Teachings are simple and true and should resonate with anyone, Indigenous or Non-Indigenous.
Looking at our world today, we can learn so much from this book about how our decisions affect everyone - past, present and future. It is a book that inspires us to consider the impact of our words, actions, decisions. We all share a responsibility in creating a world that honours and cares for all people, animals and the earth.
If we choose to follow these Teachings: Truth, Humility, Respect, Love, Courage, Honesty, and Wisdom, this is when we can achieve Mino-bimaadiziwin - "The Good Life".
This book calls me to strongly consider the impact I have on the world, my responsibility and my ability to have a positive impact! I will definitely refer back to this book often and will enjoy incorporating its important Teachings into my daily interactions and lessons with my elementary school students.

[Geoffrey Villebrun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I grew up without knowledge or access to my culture. As I began to find myself and explore Indigenous culture and spiritual beliefs as a very young man, I read ALOT and spoke with many different people about all kinds of belief systems and faiths.

I did not have the opportunity to live full time in Indigenous culture so my education in that facet was a bit scattered, having to reflect and connect concepts and teachings as my journey progressed.

Most of what James writes is not new to me, but the way in which he thoughtfully explains and connects the concept of seven generations and grandfather teachings while explaining language and the philosophy behind it brought into focused and coalesced these teachings for me.

I started reading the introduction and brought out the smudge and smudge pan, as it seemed right to do so, and imagined myself listening to James as he spoke.

I would recommend anyone; from any faith, belief system, background or knowledge level to take an opportunity to listen to James’ words that he so kindly penned to paper.

[Dianna Lanser · Rating 5 out of 5]

I follow James Vukelich Kaagegaabaw on Instagram and have really appreciated his Ojibwe Word of the Day posts, as well as his joyful, kind and humble demeanor. His obvious upright character compelled me to purchase his book. Now that I've read the book twice (there's a lot to take in), it's easy to see, James lives by "The Great Law". I was moved by his explanations of the Seven Generations and the Seven Grandfather teachings--there's a lot of hope and healing (for all people) within the pages of this little book. Because of James' knowledge of the Ojibwe language, he was able to pick the words apart and provide deeper insight into the history and full meaning of the teachings. He also provides stories and illustrations to further explain the teachings. My favorite story was the Dakota Drum Story. Main takeaway: We are all connected. My choices impact my descendants and I'm still writing my ancestor's story. Life transformation and generational transformation can happen by following the Seven Grandfather Teachings. I highly recommend this book if you want to understand the heart of the great and humble people whose land we live on.

[Justyss · Rating 5 out of 5]

My mother bought this book for herself along with another that details Anishinaabeg stories and lessons, “The Gift Is In The Making”, I have yet to read that one but I thought well with this one. I paused reading multiple times to share passages aloud with my mother because it felt as though the words had plucked our own truths from out of time.

I appreciated that this book spoke with a voice that is everyday, like I’m listening to my uncle share his wisdom. A lot of it resonated with things I’ve come to start thinking about deeply the past year and a half or so in my schooling.

The chapter on the teaching of “Love” rang true in particular, because my great grandmother always would say to me “Zhawenim” so it brought forth new depth and understanding in what we were truly saying to each other. It’s difficult still when her loss is so fresh. Or the teaching of “Courage”, and how the courageous have strong hearts- what exactly it means to live well with *all our relations*.

I want to live my life with these teachings Honestly.
Miigwech!