Shamanic Voices: A Survey of Visionary Narratives (Arkana S.)

Shamans, the physical and spiritual healers who are the central figures of many tribal cultures, share eloquent testimonies including harrowing tales of initiatory rites, vivid accounts of visionary journeys, and revealing expressions of their unique position as the link between the tribe and the cosmos.Originally published: New York : Dutton, 1979Includes bibliographical references (pages 253-254)Into the Nieríka -- Journeys to other worlds -- The quest for vision -- Seeing in a sacred way -- Wondrous medicine -- The power to transform -- Singing into life -- The house of dreams -- Lifting up the Nieríka The shaman is the medicine man or woman, the visionary healer who is the central figure in many tribal cultures-the repository of the group's rituals, myths, and secret lore. Though these individuals have eluded most Western investigators, noted medical anthropologist Joan Halifax, Ph. D., has here collected the words of the shamans themselves-some directly from living people, others from hard-to-get primary sources. These eloquent testimonies include harrowing tales of shamanic initiatory experiences; vivid accounts of visionary jouneys; and revealing expressions of the shaman's unique position as the link between the people of his or her tribe with the timeless, ineffable cosmos of which each person-and each culture-is a part. For whether the account is by a Mesoamerican Indian or and African!Kung bushman, whether from Australia, Siberia, or Alaska, there is a remarkable unity to these diverse voices Originally published: New York : Dutton, 1979 Includes bibliographical references (pages 253-254) Into the Nieríka -- Journeys to other worlds -- The quest for vision -- Seeing in a sacred way -- Wondrous medicine -- The power to transform -- Singing into life -- The house of dreams -- Lifting up the Nieríka This anthology of interviews by the author, an anthropologist, with shamans, who describe their world, their lore and their wisdom. The featured shamans are predominantly North American. Commentary, reactions and personal anecdotes by the author are also included.