Qulliq
The qulliq | ᖁᓪᓕᖅ is a lamp made out of soapstone, shaped in a half moon that provides light and warmth to our homes, originally made by a husband for his wife. It symbolizes that women are the flame keepers of the home and, on a deeper spiritual level, honour women as life-carriers.
Today is it also used in ceremonies, celebrations, gatherings or even alone; when honouring other people, while healing, and just connecting with our culture and traditions. Traditionally blubber or fats from various arctic animals were used as fuel, and arctic cotton and willows for the wick. Once the lamp was lit, it required constant attention and trimming to ensure that the flames were the right height, that it wasn’t producing too much smoke, and that it wouldn’t go out. The qulliq is a symbol of the strength, love, and gentleness of Inuit women.
