Qaujimajatuqangit

Qaujimajatuqangit is an Inuktitut term that translates to "knowledge that has been handed down" or "traditional knowledge." It encompasses the accumulated wisdom, understanding, and skills of Inuit people, passed down through generations. This knowledge is holistic and deeply intertwined with the Arctic environment, covering a wide range of subjects.

Key aspects of Qaujimajatuqangit include intimate understanding of weather patterns, animal behavior, navigation techniques, survival skills, and traditional healing practices. It also includes cultural knowledge such as storytelling, drumming, singing, and the values and ethics that guide Inuit society. This knowledge is not static but is constantly evolving, adapted to new circumstances and challenges.

Qaujimajatuqangit is acquired through observation, participation, and oral transmission, often from elders to younger generations. It is practical, experiential, and deeply connected to the land, sea, and ice. In contemporary Inuit society, Qaujimajatuqangit is increasingly recognized as a vital resource for cultural preservation, education, and sustainable development. Efforts are underway to document, share, and integrate this traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches to address contemporary issues facing Inuit communities and the Arctic region.