Dayunsi

Introduction

In North American mythology, the dayunsi, a water beetle, was the main component that formed the Earth.

Physical Traits

While some stories describe Dayunsi and being a beaver, it is commonly accepted that he is most likely to be a water beetle.

Family

The Earth was a floating island that was held up by cords connected to the sky’s cardinal points. It was always aware that the world would eventually fall. Dâyuni’sï (Beaver’s Grandchild), the Water beetle from Gälûñ’lätï, the sky realm, came to see what was below the water.
After the water beetle dove into the water, it produced mud, which then expanded into the Earth. The other creatures followed. The siblings were the first humans, and after being hit by a fish, they were forced to reproduce by birthing a child every seven days.

Powers and Abilities

After running across the sea’s surface, Dayunsi realized that there was no underground layer. He then dove into the ocean and found the sea floor. He scooped up mud from the bottom, and he returned to the surface. The mud gradually grew and expanded in all directions, eventually becoming an island or land. In the early days, it was muddy, flat, and incredibly soft.

While the birds and animals wanted to move out of their cramped environment, they were still wary and patient. To protect themselves, they decided to send other birds to the island to see what it was like. They hoped that it would eventually become a suitable home.

Modern Day Influence

The Cherokee tribe still passes on stories of the Dayunsi as it is a critical part of the creation story of their culture and mythology.