In Iroquois mythology, the Three Sisters are Corn (Onendate’ke), Beans (Onia’teh), and Squash (Gahhonohkwa’ye’h). They are central to Iroquois agriculture and cultural beliefs.
Corn was a primary crop symbolizing life and sustenance. Beans were companion plants that improved soil fertility and supported corn growth. Squash was a versatile food source and symbol of fertility, abundance, and healing.
The Three Sisters represented a sacred triad reflecting Iroquois gratitude for nature's bounty and their reliance on the land for survival. Their interdependence mirrored the unity and cooperation within Iroquois communities.