Wolf — Šuŋgmánitu Tȟáŋka

The wolf, šuŋgmánitu tȟáŋka supernatural powers of organization, wisdom, and cooperation.  Observing wolf packs gave humans valuable lessons on the unity of the family structure, cooperating for the good of the community, strong observation skills, and using wisdom to adapt quickly to unusual circumstances and avoid unnecessary battles.

The wolf’s supernatural power was highly prized by the Wolf Society, an elite warrior society that protected the people in times of war. Lakota scouts wore wolf hides, prayed to the great hunters for advice, sent scouts ahead of the main pack to observe, and scrutinized everything a second time just like their animal guides.