Who was Kokopelli?

Tracing the Origins of a Southwestern Pueblo Deity

The figure of Kokopelli adorns earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and other modes of fashion these days. However, before the 16^th century, he graced cave walls, cliffs, and ceramics. Few people outside the Pueblo cultures know much about the mythical figure other than his value as a decoration. Even fewer know his origins. Among the Southwestern Pueblos, Kokopelli (which is a name derived from Hopi-Zuni origins) has been revered as a powerful kachina, or god, for generations. He has had the title of Rain God, Fertility God, and Hunting God bestowed upon him throughout the ages. He has been depicted with various qualities which will be described in detail further; among them being a distinct hump on his back. He is as legendary a figure among the Pueblos as Christ is among the Christians, and just as revered. Yet, few outside the Four-Corners region know anything about this versatile deity. The question remains, where did Kokopelli originate? Why is he so important to the Pueblos? In this paper, I will examine the various opinions and theories in an attempt to answer these questions.