The Hopi Death Kachina is Maasaw (Masauwu or Masau). He is an Earth God who is All Powerful. Maasaw stays at Hopi year round and is responsible for the Earth's surface, fire, and the underworld.
Death is an important part of hunting and war. Hunters, warriors, and shamen all call upon Maasaw for assistance. Hunters seek food, and call upon Maasaw to guide the spirit of the animal into the underworld where it can enter the cycle of rebirth. A warrior seeks power for battle or the death of his enemy. Shamen seek to heal the sick, and Maasaw has power over death.
Maasaw Mana. Maiden who accompanies Maasaw. Appears at Angk’wa, Summer Day Dances, after Niman. Represents protection and guidance, rain and bountiful harvest. When she appears at the dance with Maasaw it is to keep in check his omniscient power. This is one of the very few Katsinam that is a woman (most are men dressed as women).
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