Jiibayaabooz

Jiibayaabooz: The Spirit Rabbit of Ojibwe and Abenaki Mythology

Jiibayaabooz (ᒋᐸᔮᐴᔅ), also known as Chipiapoos or Cheeby-aub-oozoo, is a prominent trickster spirit in Ojibwe mythology, sometimes appearing in Abenaki traditions as Mateguas. His name translates to “Spirit Rabbit” or “Ghost of Rabbit,” emphasizing his connection to both the natural world and the spirit realm.

Origins and Role in Creation

Jiibayaabooz was born to Wiininwaa (“Nourishment”), a human mother, and E-bangishimog (“In the West”), a spirit father. Some traditions claim he was the second son, while others say he was the third. His stories are filled with themes of mysticism and the supernatural, and he played a significant role in shaping spiritual practices and beliefs.

The Dreamwalker and Spiritual Guide

While alive, Jiibayaabooz was fascinated by the manitous (spirits) and how they interacted with humans. Through dreams, he communicated with these spirits and taught humans the importance of vision quests. However, as the younger sibling, he often endured the taunts and challenges of his elder brother, Majiikiwis. In one tragic event, he accepted a dare from Majiikiwis, which led to his untimely death.

Guardian of the Underworld

Even in death, Jiibayaabooz remained obsessed with the manitous, continuing to guide humans through rites and purification ceremonies. According to Ojibwe traditions, he became the “Chief of the Underworld” and bestowed the spirit of music, chants, and poetry upon the Anishinaubae peoples.

In Abenaki mythology, Mateguas (Jiibayaabooz) appeared to his grieving brother, Gluskab, teaching him the secrets of vision quests and purification rituals. These teachings formed the core of the Midewiwin ceremonies, which Gluskab later passed on to humans, ensuring that Jiibayaabooz’s wisdom endured for generations.