Navajo Weaving Quiz

According to Navajo tradition, what is the role of the Holy People who created the Navajo?
a) They were weavers
b) They traveled on lightning bolts
c) They brought harmony to the world
d) They were hunters

• A

• B

• C

• D

Who taught the Navajo to live in harmony in their traditional belief?

a) Changing Woman

b) Spider Woman

c) Lightning Spirit

d) Navajo Elders

• A

• B

• C

• D

What is the role of Spider Woman in Navajo culture?

a) She provided the framework for weaving

b) She taught them how to hunt

c) She brought rain to the desert

d) She was a healer

• A

• B

• C

• D

Who traditionally practices weaving in Navajo society?

a) Men and women equally

b) Men

c) Women

d) Elders

• A

• B

• C

• D

What did old Navajo wearing blankets often carry as symbols related to the teachings of Spider Woman?

a) Lightning bolts

b) Thunderbirds

c) Crosses

d) Corn symbols

• A

• B

• C

• D

Why did some Navajo weavers place a hole in the cross symbol in their weavings?

a) To let the spirit of Spider Woman out

b) To create a unique design

c) To prevent spirits from entering

d) To please the trading post owners

• A

• B

• C

• D

What does the diamond symbol in Navajo weavings represent according to some Navajo grandmothers?

a) The Navajo homeland and its sacred mountains

b) Lightning bolts

c) A symbol of trade

d) The spider's web

• A

• B

• C

• D

How have triangles been used in Navajo design?

a) As a symbol of rain

b) As a representation of hunting

c) To create patterns in blankets

d) As a symbol of the sun

• A

• B

• C

• D

Why did the "spirit line" become popular in Navajo weavings after 1900?

a) To indicate the weaver's family

b) To enhance the beauty of the weaving

c) At the request of traders who wanted borders

d) As a symbol of traditional Navajo ceremonies

• A

• B

• C

• D

What is the purpose of the "spirit line" in Navajo weavings?

a) To not trap the creative spirit of the weaver

b) To mark the center of the weaving

c) To represent the wind's path

d) To indicate the weaver's name

• A

• B

• C

• D