Meaning: The quote you've provided is a description of a specific ceremonial practice of Native American tribes, often referred to as a "circle dance" or "round dance." This particular description seems to be from the perspective of an observer, likely a researcher or ethnographer, who is recording the details of the ritual they are witnessing. The mention of "James Mooney, Scientist" suggests that this quote is attributed to James Mooney, a prominent ethnographer and anthropologist who conducted extensive research on Native American tribes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The act of "facing inward" and "joining hands to form a small circle" indicates a communal gathering or ceremony where participants come together in a circular formation. This circular arrangement is significant in many indigenous cultures as it symbolizes unity, equality, and the interconnectedness of all living beings. The act of joining hands also signifies a sense of solidarity and shared purpose among the participants.

The mention of singing the opening song in a soft undertone while remaining in place indicates a deliberate and meditative beginning to the ceremony. Music and singing hold great importance in many Native American traditions, serving as a means of communication, storytelling, and spiritual expression. The soft undertone suggests that the singing may be initially subdued, perhaps as a way of centering the participants and setting the tone for the rest of the ceremony.

James Mooney, the author of this quote, was an ethnographer and anthropologist known for his extensive fieldwork among various Native American tribes. Born in 1861, Mooney dedicated much of his life to studying and documenting the cultures, languages, and rituals of indigenous peoples. His work resulted in numerous publications, including "The Ghost Dance Religion and the Sioux Outbreak of 1890" and "The Sacred Formulas of the Cherokees." Mooney's writings are considered invaluable sources of information about Native American traditions and belief systems.

In the context of this quote, it's important to recognize the significance of Mooney's observations as a non-Native researcher documenting the practices of indigenous communities. While his work has provided valuable insights into these cultures, it's essential to approach his writings with an understanding of the historical and cultural context in which they were produced. Researchers and scholars today approach Mooney's work with a critical lens, acknowledging the power dynamics and colonial influences that shaped early ethnographic studies of indigenous peoples.

The description in the quote likely pertains to a specific ceremonial or social dance within the cultural practices of the tribe that Mooney was studying. Circle dances are a common form of traditional dance in many Native American cultures, and they often hold deep spiritual and social significance. These dances can be performed for various reasons, including celebrating community events, honoring the natural world, and marking important rites of passage.

In conclusion, the quote you've provided offers a glimpse into the observation and documentation of a Native American ceremonial practice by the renowned ethnographer James Mooney. It reflects the communal and meditative aspects of a circle dance, highlighting the importance of unity, music, and shared ritual experience within indigenous cultures. Understanding the historical and cultural context of such observations is essential in appreciating the rich traditions and spiritual significance of Native American ceremonial practices.