Lecture Notes: The Great Law of Peace

Introduction

• The story of the Peacemaker and the formation of the Iroquois Confederacy.
• Time of internal and external wars among the five nations.
• Comparison to historical conflicts like Kosovo.

The Peacemaker's Mission

• The Peacemaker's arrival at the Mohawk shore.
• Stayed at a lodge owned by a woman from the Erie, known as a cat woman.
• Her rule: leave weapons of war outside and do not discuss war inside.
• She supported the Peacemaker's mission after hearing it.

Gathering the Nations

• The Peacemaker gathered the five nations, met resistance, particularly from a figure named Terragamo.
• Terragamo lived in a swamp, was fierce, and resisted the Peacemaker's efforts.
• A special song taught by the cat woman, which pulled Terragamo towards the Peacemaker against his will.

Transformation and Acceptance

• Terragamo transformed from fierce and evil to a state of discourse with the Peacemaker.
• The symbolism of snakes falling from his hair as he changed.

Formation of the Confederacy

• Five nations gathered at Onondaga Lake.
• The Peacemaker laid out a process, described as complete and not evolved over time.
• Planted the Great Tree of Peace symbolizing peace and spiritual laws.
• The tree had four white roots representing peace, going in cardinal directions.
• An eagle placed atop the tree to watch for threats.

Establishing the Peace

• Confederacy founded with a center fire at Onondaga.
• Leaders agreed to throw weapons into a hole beneath the uprooted tree, symbolizing the end of war.
• Leaders given a wing feather to brush away threats.

Legacy

• This act of peace is the foundation for the Iroquois Confederacy.
• The symbol of the tree and the practices of peace continue today.
• The story is an allegory for the power of peace and unity against chaos and war.

Conclusion

• The Great Law of Peace is a lasting symbol and practice among the Iroquois.

• Its teachings remain relevant, emphasizing unity, peace, and mutual respect among nations.

• The lecture concludes with appreciation for the enduring power of peace as represented by the Iroquois Confederacy.