104 THE BELLA COOLA INDIANS

Shamans achieve much of their success through their ability
to put their wash-basins, both tangible (I, p. 560) and imma-
terial, in tune with #guntdm’s in the land above. One method
of treating a patient is by washing, with the idea that the water
and vessel used have potency through association with those
in the upper world. It is believed that in the distant past,
shamans were even able to carry their patients to the land
above and wash them in A/guntdém’s own basin. Such feats
are perpetuated in certain shamans’ names, such as Alpalxe-
loslaix.

It may be said in conclusion that although the Bella Coola
have indefinite ideas concerning the exact form and functions
of this last element, there is a firm belief that an individual’s
fortune in life depends upon the activity of spirit, tally post,
and wash-basin. With regard to supernatural elements as a
whole, it is clear that in spite of somewhat conflicting beliefs
concerning the precise functions of each, they play an impor-
tant part in the life of every Bella Coola.

Means OF PROPITIATION

Some of the methods employed by the Bella Coola to gain
the favour of the supernatural have already been mentioned,
but the subject is sufficiently important to warrant a separate
section. In view of the omnipresence of supernatural] beings
and powers, and their influence on the lives of mortals, it is
not surprising that the propitiation of them is a vital factor
in human life. The chief means are prayer, sacrifice, and the
observance of ceremonial chastity.

PRAYER

Prayers are regularly addressed to d?guntdim who, in this
connection, is known as Minakais or Tatd, both meaning,
“Father.”’ A wise man or woman desiring success in hunting,
in love affairs, in the acquisition of wealth, or in any activity
whatsoever, is accustomed to ask Minakais to grant his desire.
No ritual is required. The petitioner merely seeks a lonely