The Ohén:ton Karihwatéhkwen reminds each person that human beings are a small part of a much larger natural world. Its structure is meant to address and return thanks to each part of the natural world separately. After each part, the speaker states that “we who are gathered here have put our minds together for this purpose,” and the assembled people indicate their agreement.
The Ohén:ton Karihwatéhkwen reminds those gathered that they have duties and responsibilities, not only to themselves, but also to the entire natural world and the rest of creation. The message is simple, that as each part of the natural world continues to fulfill its responsibilities, so we as humans have our own responsibilities to fulfill to maintain the world as it should be.
