Foes of Evil: The Navajo Myth of Twins Monster Slayer and Born-For-Water

The Native American tribes boast a very complex and thought-provoking set of beliefs and traditions, in which the legend of heroic twin brothers is often shared and found in many tribes.
In the myths of the Navajo tribe, these twins are known as Monster Slayer and Born-For-Water, and are central figures in the tribe’s mythology, embodying themes of bravery, protection, and the struggle against evil. Their story is not just a tale of heroism but a complex set of cultural beliefs, values, and the enduring relationship between the Navajo people and their environment.

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The Navajo Twins in Earliest Tribal Stories

The tale of Monster Slayer and Born-For-Water begins with their mother, Changing Woman (Asdzą́ą́ Nádleehi), one of the most revered deities in Navajo mythology. Changing Woman represents life, fertility, and transformation. According to the myths, she conceived the twins with the Sun, who gave her two pieces of turquoise and abalone shell, which transformed into the twins. The Changing Woman raised her sons on Gobernador Knob, a Navajo sacred mountain, where they learned about their divine heritage and the destiny that awaited them.

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Traditional Dinétah territory (northwestern New Mexico), where Gobernador Knob (Chʼóolʼį́ʼí) is located. (U.S. Geological Survey/CC BY 2.0)

As they grew older, Monster Slayer and Born-For-Water became aware of the many monsters that plagued their people. These monsters were the personification of chaos and danger in the world. Determined to rid their land of these threats, the twins embarked on a perilous journey to the Sun's house to seek guidance and weapons. Their journey was fraught with challenges, including crossing a vast desert and overcoming numerous obstacles that tested their courage and resolve.

A Navajo man wearing a ceremonial mask and dress of Naayééʼ Neizghání, taken by Edward S. Curtis (c. 1904) (Public Domain)

Upon reaching their father, the Sun, they underwent a series of trials to prove their worthiness. Impressed by their determination and bravery, the Sun bestowed upon Monster Slayer a magical bow and arrows, while Born-For-Water received a protective staff. These gifts were crucial for their mission to defeat the monsters. Armed with their new weapons, the twins returned to their homeland to confront the monsters. Monster Slayer took the lead in the battles, wielding his bow and arrows with deadly precision. His brother, Born-For-Water, played a supportive role, using his protective staff to aid and defend Monster Slayer. Together, they defeated numerous fearsome creatures, including the giants, the monsters at Shiprock ( Tsé Bitʼaʼí in Navajo language), and the notorious Yeitso, the Big Giant.

Warriors of the Sun

Each battle was not only a physical confrontation but also a spiritual one. The twins relied on their wit, bravery, and the teachings of their mother and father. They invoked prayers and rituals to ensure their success, highlighting the deep connection between their physical prowess and their spiritual strength.

We can quickly understand that the story of Monster Slayer and Born-For-Water is more than an epic adventure; it is a cornerstone of Navajo cultural identity. The twins symbolize the triumph of good over evil, the importance of bravery, and the necessity of working together for the greater good. Their tale is recounted in various ceremonies and rituals, serving as a reminder of the values that underpin Navajo society.

One of the most significant ceremonies associated with the twins is the Enemy Way (Anaaʼjí). This healing ceremony is performed to restore balance and harmony for individuals who have been in conflict or war. The stories of the twins are recited during the ceremony, emphasizing their role as protectors and healers. The twins’ journey and victories also serve as metaphors for overcoming personal and communal challenges.

In contemporary Navajo culture, the story of Monster Slayer and Born-For-Water continues to be a source of inspiration. Their legacy is preserved through oral traditions, storytelling, and art. Navajo artists often depict the twins in paintings, sculptures, and jewelry, each piece capturing the essence of their heroism and spiritual significance. What is more, their story resonates beyond the Navajo Nation, offering universal themes of courage, resilience, and the fight against adversity. Scholars and enthusiasts of Native American mythology study the twins’ tale to gain deeper insights into the rich cultural heritage of the Navajo people.

Navajo Girl, Navajo Reservation, Window Rock, Arizona. (Wolfgang Staudt from Saarbruecken/Germany, CC BY 2.0)

The People of the Plains

The legend of Monster Slayer and Born-For-Water is a profound narrative that encapsulates the essence of Navajo mythology. From their divine birth to their heroic deeds, the twins embody the values and beliefs that have sustained the Navajo people for generations. Their story is a testament to the enduring power of myth and its ability to convey complex cultural truths and inspire future generations. Through the continued retelling and celebration of their adventures, the legacy of Monster Slayer and Born-For-Water remains a vital part of Navajo heritage, symbolizing the eternal struggle between good and evil and the unwavering spirit of a people that struggled so much in its history.

Top image: Navajo Yebichai (Yei Bi Chei) dancers. Edward S. Curtis. USA, 1900.     Source: Public Domain

By Aleksa Vučković