American Indians have used fetishes for thousands of years, the earliest of which were called "Ahlashiwe." These were stones that naturally formed into the shape of a human or animal and were thought to hold the spirit of the human or animal within. Thus, they were treated as a source of power not only for an individual possessing one but for the welfare of the entire tribe.
The power of the fetish comes from the ancient belief that we are spiritually connected to all life on our planet, including the stars, galaxies and beyond. This sense of connection to the spiritual presence within all life permeates the native peoples' interpretation of the visible world.
When an animal fetish is treated respect, honour and reverence, its owner can maintain a clear intention and increase his/her potential to live in harmony with the natural forces of life. Whatever energy the owner puts into the fetish is what he/she will usually receive from it. Often the animal fetish is used as a decorator item, with no particular emphasis on the supernatural or spiritual. In this instance, the fetish is simply appreciated for its unique artistic beauty.
