Story Summary
Experience the legendary Native American tale Coyote Steals Fire, where a clever trickster and his animal friends outsmart the Fire Beings to bring heat to humanity.
In the ancient days, when the world was young and cold, fire was guarded by the jealous Fire Beings on the highest, snow-capped peak. Coyote, pitying the freezing humans in the valley, gathered his forest friends in a long relay down the mountainside. He crept into the camp of the Fire Beings and waited for them to grow drowsy. While they were distracted, Coyote seized a glowing ember in his jaws and fled. The Fire Beings woke and pursued him with the speed of a lightning strike. Coyote ran until his lungs burned, then passed the flame to Cougar. Cougar passed it to Bear, who passed it to Deer, each animal risking their life to keep the flame moving. During the chase, Squirrel's tail curled from the heat, and Frog lost his tail to a Fire Being's grasp. Finally, as the pursuers closed in, Frog spat the ember into the heart of a cedar tree. Since that day, fire has lived inside the wood, and those who know how to rub two sticks together can always call forth the warmth that Coyote won for the world.
The Moral
True progress is achieved through community cooperation and the willingness to take risks for the benefit of others.
“Fire belongs to everyone, and now it shall hide in the wood until we call it forth.”
Fun Fact
This legend is found in various forms across many North American tribes, including the Karuk and the Miwok, serving as both a creation myth and an animal origin story.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Coyote Steals Fire?
The story teaches that cooperation and self-sacrifice are essential for the survival and progress of a community. It highlights how different individuals, regardless of size, can contribute to a common goal.
Who are the Fire Beings in the legend?
The Fire Beings are the original guardians of fire who lived on a high mountain. They are depicted as selfish entities who refused to share the warmth of the flame with the rest of the world.
How does the story explain the appearance of animals?
The legend acts as an origin story for certain animal traits. For example, it explains why a squirrel's tail is curled from the heat and why frogs do not have tails, as one was pulled off during the chase.
Why did Coyote decide to steal the fire?
Coyote was moved by the suffering of the human beings who were freezing in the winter. As a trickster hero, he used his wits and agility to provide them with the tool they needed to survive.
How does the story explain how to make fire?
At the end of the chase, the fire is spat into a tree. This explains why humans can extract fire from wooden sticks by rubbing them together, as the fire is 'hidden' inside the material.
Is Coyote considered a hero in this story?
Yes, although Coyote is traditionally a trickster, in this myth he serves as a culture hero. He uses his deceptive nature for a noble purpose that benefits all of humanity and the natural world.