Blessed Are the Peacemakers

Vintage Navajo Blanket and Peace Pipe Mounted on Reclaimed Wood Cross, 1800’s English Bible, Forged Iron Nails, Turquoise Nuggets, Native American Turquoise and Shell Dove Necklace, Nepalese Paper, Waxed Linen Thread, Ethiopian Coptic Stitching
18"W X 24"H X 4"D

A decorated tobacco pipe, similar to the one in this piece, is known as a Peace Pipe or Sacred Pipe to some Native Americans. It was smoked in a spiritual ceremony to signify the resolution of a dispute and to seal a covenant or a peace treaty. It was believed that the smoke carried the prayers for peace up to the heavens and to the four directions. The dragon fly, depicted in the double bar cross in this piece, also was seen as a messenger who carried prayers to the Spirit World.

For Christians, Jesus, is seen as the one who brings peace to the world and is often referred to as the “Prince of Peace.” Throughout the New Testament, verses talk about Jesus and peace. In Ephesians 2:11-18, Paul emphasizes how Christ is the peacemaker. In John 14:27 Jesus says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” And, in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus lists the blessings that await those who live their lives in a certain way. Jesus addresses the peacemakers in particular by saying, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9).