In the vast tapestry of human spirituality, few concepts are as intriguing and enigmatic as the Australian Dreaming. Unlike the fleeting images that dance through our minds during sleep, the Dreaming holds a profound significance for the original inhabitants of Australia, the First Nations people.
Often referred to as Australian Aboriginals, Indigenous Australians, or First Australians, their understanding of the Dreaming is as fundamental to their identity as the Bible is to Christians, the Koran is to Muslims, or the Dharma is to Buddhists. I admire them and had the privilege of living with a traditional group in the South Australian Desert some years ago. I refer to the wisdom I gained from them in another article Living in Harmony: Integrating our Daily Lives according to Indigenous Wisdom. This will give you a little more background to enhance your understanding here.
So, what is The Australian Dreaming?
The Dreaming is a complex amalgamation of social, spiritual, and mystical elements deeply intertwined with Australia’s immense cultural heritage. It transcends conventional notions of time and space, encompassing the entire universe and existing outside the confines of traditional history.
To the First Australians, the Dreaming represents not just a distant mythological past but a living, breathing entity that permeates every aspect of existence—sixty-five thousand years of history since humans first appeared as we know them today.
Central to the Dreaming are the Ancestral Spirits, whose actions during the Earth’s formative years laid the foundation for life as we know it. These ancient beings moved across the land, shaping its landscapes and imbuing it with sacred significance.
As humanity emerged and evolved, the Ancestral Spirits transformed into the natural elements we see today—trees, stars, rocks, and waterholes—becoming an integral part of the physical and spiritual fabric of the land.
Who are the Dreaming Heroes?
The Dreaming Heroes, as they are known, are not mere legends confined to the annals of history. Their presence is felt in the stories, songs, art, and ceremonies passed down through generations by the elders of each tribe.
These custodians of knowledge, often called “clever fellas,” hold the keys to unlocking the mysteries of the Dreaming, revealing its timeless truths to those who are initiated and spiritually attuned.
What is the philosophy of the Dreaming?
At its heart, the philosophy of the Dreaming revolves around the interconnectedness of all living and non-living beings. Past, present, and future are woven together in an eternal circle of existence, guided by the wisdom of the Ancestral Heroes.
Through oral tradition and artistic expression, such as music, storytelling, and painting, the Dreaming Stories are transmitted, serving as a repository of cultural values, traditions, and laws.
The Dreaming is not bound by the linear concept of time that dominates Western thought. Instead, it embraces a circular understanding of existence, where the past, present, and future coalesce into an ever-present reality.
This holistic perspective challenges the conventional notions of history and encourages a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of all things.
How can the Australian Dreaming help us attract wealth and earth health today?
As modern society grapples with the existential challenges of climate change and ecological degradation, the wisdom of the Dreaming offers a profound insight into sustainable living. For over 65,000 years, the First Australians have lived in harmony with the land, viewing it not as a resource to be exploited but as a sacred trust to be protected.
Yet, despite the resilience and wisdom of the First Australians, their way of life has been threatened by centuries of colonization and oppression. The impact of European settlement, marked by disease, displacement, and cultural genocide, has left deep scars on Indigenous communities. However, there is hope in the resurgence of traditional knowledge and practices as a new generation of leaders seeks to reclaim their ancestral heritage.
What I learned first-hand from these fantastic people was to stay close to the Earth even though I have been conditioned since birth to live apart from it. In my thoughts and the feelings they evoke – which I can choose to create all my days with – I am very close to the Earth. In fact, since my time in the red desert of the Dreaming Lands, I have never left it. It is my home, my element, and there is no better place to enrich myself than that!
Always remember that wealth, good health, good fortune and happiness all start inside. Here, I visualise the Dreaming Earth and start each of my creative days. Such gratitude for its constant support under my feet and oxygen to make all of my breaths possible.
The Earth is the most marvellous resource for every human being. At Jambhala Wealth, we celebrate it every single day.
In conclusion, the Australian Dreaming represents a timeless journey of spiritual exploration and cultural preservation. Its teachings offer invaluable lessons for humanity, reminding us of our interconnectedness with the natural world and the importance of living in harmony with the land.
As we navigate the challenges of the modern age, may we draw inspiration from the wisdom of the Dreaming and strive to create a more sustainable and equitable future for everyone.
You can read more of my adventures in the Dreaming Lands in my Kindle book, Easy-Happy-Sexy: on the Twelfth Day. This is a modern-day fable which will initiate some profound changes inside. This a short video about the story:
Hello Linden,
We meet again! This article beautifully delves into the profound concepts of the Australian Dreaming providing me with a rich understanding of its cultural, spiritual and ecological significance. Your firsthand experience and admiration for the First Australians add authenticity to the narrative, creating a bridge for me to connect with the wisdom of the Dreaming.
The connection drawn between the ancient wisdom of the Dreaming and its relevance to contemporary challenges, such as climate change and ecological degradation, is particularly impactful. The article suggests that the Dreaming’s principles could guide modern society towards sustainable living and a deeper appreciation for the Earth as a sacred trust.
Your personal reflections on staying close to the Earth after living with the First Australians provide a poignant touch, that offers me a glimpse into the transformative power of such an experience. The emphasis on gratitude for the Earth and the acknowledgment of its role in supporting human life adds a practical dimension to the spiritual teachings.
Thank you for sharing another thought provoking post. As always I look forward to your next article.
Blessings and Abundance!
Hi Starlight,
Good to have you visit again! I feel as if we are really in sync.
So delighted this post touches you so deeply. Yes, such a transformation! Such an incredible insight which has fueled me for the last 30 years! My beloved First Australians are with me always. You’ll understand it when I say that the tribal leader Ninija is my spirit guide. She is always with me keeping me close to the Earth. They are light-years ahead of most of us so-called developed/civilised people.
It’s great to have you with me. Thank you for this comment which will help other visitors. I’d be honoured if you signed up to receive my latest posts by email alert which you can do on the HP of Jambhala.
Blessings falling as Blossoms at your Feet.
In Loving Kindness.
Linden
I have always had a deep respect for the Indigenous Nations across our vast world, no matter their origin. To have the privilege to live among the Indigenous Australians must have felt surreal. I could only imagine the honor you felt being welcomed into their villages.
I have spent a great deal of time with American Indians and I know when I visit the Reservation, I feel very honored to be welcomed in with warm embraces. There is so much we can learn from the elders in the tribes and from their way of life in general.
I truly enjoyed your article and feel a little envious of your grand journey to Australia’s Outback.
Thanks for this fantastic delve into the Indigenous Australians and Australian Dreaming!
Stacie
Hi Stacie,
Thanks so much for this revelation! Not many people are familiar with indigenous ways and wisdom, so finding someone who truly values them is refreshing.
Yes, I was and still am incredibly honoured to have had this experience, which has stayed vividly with me for many years. Ninija – the traditional landowner of the tribe I helped – is my spirit guide. I dream about her often and feel her guiding me in almost everything I do. This indicates that all our ancestors were once indigenes. I’m so grateful to have been guided to them.
Please continue to derive blessings, insights and benefits from the US First Nations you spend time with.
Blessings and success from me too.
Linden