The source of wind, power, and life all falls under the name Oni, whose name originates from the Taiga tribe. Wind is significant throughout the entire novel. The author displays the power of wind during the hurricane, the uncertainty of wind when Omishto is out on the boat in the fog, and life the wind is able to give, which is explained in the Taiga version of the creation story. Wind is everywhere, but it is not visible. This belief in wind and the knowledge we have of it brings a question to mind. Why do we have such an easy time believing in wind, but such a difficult time believing in God? Both God and wind are invisible, so neither fall under the "seeing is believing" category. One might answer that we believe in wind because its effects are visible, such as the debris it carries after a hurricane. But can't we see the effects of God as well? Miracles happen everyday and they are visible signs of God's love for us. Personally, I feel that God and wind are intertwined. When I look for visible and tangible signs of God, I think of nature and all of the beauties within. While God breathes life into each individual, the wind sustains the natural world by giving off oxygen and other chemicals living things need to survive. After reflecting on the novel, I have discovered that the importance of Oni in the traditions and beliefs of the Taiga tribe parallels the significant role God plays in my life.
I liked your connection to God and wind. Having been through hurricanes, you can see the effects of the wind. Also, the hurricanes brings the effects of God through people (strangers) helping each others. These strangers working together to have their communities up and working again is a symbol of God's being.
ReplyDeleteI also really like your connection here. Both of these intangible things do have a lot in common, and in my opinion they are in very intertwined. It is are very good question to ask but without faith, it is difficult to explain.
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