The Inuit emphasize eight guiding principles drawn from traditional knowledge and practices. They are called Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit, or simply “IQ Principles.” The first principle is Inuuqatigiitsiarniq, which is about respecting others, building relationships and caring for people.
Although no culture is perfect, we have seen these values lived out firsthand. For example, Inuit elders are highly respected because their knowledge and experience are valuable. Elders are prioritized when country food—traditional foods harvested from the land and water, such as caribou, seal, fish and berries—is being shared, as well as when fresh river water is distributed. At the Christmas games, children were encouraged to give up their seats for elders.
A common Inuktitut greeting is “Qanuippit?” which loosely means, “Is anything wrong with you?” The respondent will usually say, “Qanuinngittunga,” meaning, “There is nothing wrong with me.” When something is wrong, however, support is available. That support could look like raising money for flights so family members can attend a funeral, sharing food or stopping a Ski-Doo to make sure someone is OK.
Please pray for the Arctic team as they learn what it means to respect and care for others in the Inuit way. Pray that, as the team grows in its understanding and practice of these principles, Inuit will recognize the team’s genuine care and respect for them.
