Note 27 — The Origin of the Stars and the Explanation of Sunset and Sunrise

The brother-in-law of Lumáwig said to him: “Create water, because the sun is very hot, and all the people are thirsty!” Then said Lumáwig: “Why do you ask so much for water? Let us go on,” he continued, “I shall soon create water.” Then they went on, and at last his brother-in-law said again: “Well, why do you not create water? It should be easy, if you are really Lumáwig!” Then said Lumáwig: “Why do you shame me in public?” And then they quarreled, the brothers-in-law. Then they climbed on up the mountain, and at last the brother-in-law said again: “Why do you care nothing because the people are thirsty, and you do not create water?” Then said Lumáwig: “Let us sit down, people, and rest.” Then he struck the rock with his spear, and water sprang out. Then he said to the people: “Come and drink!” And his brother-in-law stepped forth to drink, but Lumáwig restrained him, saying: “Do not drink! Let the people drink first, so that we shall be the last to drink.” And when the people had finished drinking, Lumáwig drank. Then he said to his brother-in-law: “Come and drink.” Then the brother-in-law stooped to drink, and Lumáwig pushed him into the rock. Water gushed out from his body. Then said Lumáwig: “Stay thou here because of thy annoying me!” Then they named that spot ad Isik.27 Then the people went home; and the sister of Lumáwig said to him: “Why did you push your brother-in-law into the rock?” Then said Lumáwig: “Surely, because he angered me!” Then the people prayed and performed sacrifices. * * *