kachina

Kachina refers to spiritual beings in Hopi and Pueblo Native American cultures, embodying elements like nature, animals, and ancestors. They are often represented through carved dolls, known as kachina dolls, which serve both as toys for children and ceremonial items. In rituals, priests may dress as kachinas to perform dances that invoke these spirits for blessings, rain, and good harvests. Kachinas symbolize the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds, reflecting the deep respect for nature and tradition in these cultures.