The nations of the Iroquoian family were traditionally animists.
Animists believe that objects, plants, animals and human beings are animated by spirits that must be respected.
For animists, the world is divided into three parts: the underground world, the Earth and the sky. The underground world is the world of spirits and the deceased. Earth is the place of everyday life. The sky is reserved for other spirits and the Great Spirit, an all-powerful being who created the Universe.
The Great Spirit reigns over everything around him. He uses birds and shamans as intermediaries between him and human beings. Animists communicate with the Great Spirit by praying alone or in groups. They aim for a constant balance between people and the spirits. Everyone must find the spirit that will accompany, guide and protect them throughout their lives.