1. the physical structure or organization of the world,
2. the icons or symbols about beings occupying the supernatural world, and
3. the potential importance and use of exotic or valuable materials.

While it is difficult to define Mississippian beliefs in detail, much less how these beliefs were employed to enforce rules of behavior, archaeological and ethnohistorical data do permit us to outline major elements of the Mississippian supernatural world. This outline permits additional inferences about different religious cults and ceremonies.