Its a circle or a loop with an upside down human hand silhouette attached to the loop in the middle by four bars originating from the North, South,East and West. Eagle Feathers and an Eagle leg bone whistle hang from the lower side.
A tribe solicited the eagle to take a prayer to the sun and upon delivery the sun asked the eagle for a feather. The Eagle gave him a tail feather and the sun put it next to his mouth and blew on it. The tip became scorched. To this day the eagle tail feather is black on the end and reflects his strength.
I just watched the first segment of 500 nations. Its free to watch on the web.
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=6736846601041698993#Kevin Costner in the beginning states that this Country history starts at a time that is comfortable to ignore our native american heritage. That history is massive. European Countries recognize their total ancient history we started with Columbus. You will be amazed by these hidden civilizations.
The hand was a symbol or conduit of power. The Eagle leg whisle was used during the sun dance where body weight was forced against the breast and back skin piercings. You might say it was done in allegience and gratitude to the creator.
Thank You.
