Tokpela, The First World – A Hopi Legend.

In the vast expanse of Tokpela, the first world, there existed only the Creator, Taiowa. This endless space had no boundaries, no time, no form, no life. It was an immeasurable void, its essence residing solely in the mind of Taiowa. From this boundless void, Taiowa conceived the finite and created Sótuknang, an instrument to carry out his vision for life within this infinite space. Taiowa spoke to Sótuknang, saying, “I have given you the first power and form to execute my plan. I am your Uncle, and you are my Nephew. Now, go forth and arrange these universes in harmony according to my design.”

Sótuknang obeyed and drew from the endless space the elements needed to manifest solid substance. He molded these into forms and arranged them into nine universal kingdoms: one belonging to Taiowa the Creator, one for himself, and seven others for the life yet to come. Upon completion, Sótuknang asked Taiowa if his work was in accordance with the plan. Taiowa affirmed, “Yes, it is very good. Now do the same for the waters, dividing them equally across the surfaces of these universes.” Sótuknang then gathered the essence of water from the endless space, placing it so that each universe was half solid and half water. Again, he sought Taiowa’s approval, and Taiowa confirmed, “Yes, it is very good. Now, put the forces of air into peaceful movement around all.”

Sótuknang proceeded by gathering from the boundless space that which would become the air. He shaped these into great forces, setting them into gentle, ordered motion around each universe. Once more, he sought confirmation from Taiowa, who responded, “Yes, you have completed a great task according to my plan. You have created universes, given form to solids, waters, and winds, and placed them in their rightful positions. But your task is not yet complete. You must now create life and its movements to fulfill the four parts of my universal plan, known as Túwaquachi.”

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