The Navajo people have a deep-rooted belief in the power of magic and its practitioners. However, there have been instances in Navajo society where a magic practitioner is expelled from the community. This expulsion is typically a result of their misuse or abuse of their powers. In Navajo culture, a magic practitioner, known as a "witch," is someone who possesses the ability to harm or bring misfortune to others through supernatural means. This power is seen as a double-edged sword, capable of both good and evil. Therefore, the Navajo people hold their magic practitioners in high regard, seeking their help for various purposes, such as healing, protection, or divination.
What Are Skinwalkers?
From encounters with mythical animals, to numerous cattle mutilations, poltergeist activity, crop circles, sightings of glowing orbs, and even flying saucers, virtually everything you might call paranormal has been reported at the ranch and surrounding properties, wrote Austin Craig in TechBuzz in 2021. In the 2016 book Upward, Not Sunwise, anthropologist Kimberly Jenkins Marshall discussed the way skinwalker accounts and beliefs factored into neo-pentecostal Navajo communities.
Therefore, the Navajo people hold their magic practitioners in high regard, seeking their help for various purposes, such as healing, protection, or divination. However, when a magic practitioner begins to use their powers for malicious reasons or personal gain, the Navajo community takes swift action to protect themselves and maintain harmony. The expulsion of a magic practitioner is seen as a necessary step to prevent further harm and restore balance within the community.
Legends of America
The process of expulsion can vary, but it usually involves the gathering of community members to discuss the practitioner's actions and decide on the appropriate course of action. This decision is made through the consensus of the community, with each member having a voice. The main goal of expulsion is to isolate the magic practitioner from the community, cutting off their access to victims and potential sources of power. This is often achieved by banishing the practitioner from the tribal lands or placing them under strict surveillance to prevent further harm. The expulsion is also a form of punishment for the magic practitioner, as it serves as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to misuse their powers. It sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated within the Navajo community. While the Navajo people believe in the power of magic and its practitioners, they are also aware of the potential dangers that misuse of this power can bring. The expulsion of a magic practitioner is a necessary step to protect the community and ensure the proper and responsible use of supernatural abilities..
Reviews for "Navajo Magic Practitioner Expulsion: Implications for Cultural Preservation"
1. John - 2/5 - I found "Navajo magic practitioner expulsion" to be incredibly disrespectful and offensive to Navajo culture and traditions. The author seems to have little understanding or respect for the practices they are trying to portray. The characters are shallow and stereotypical, and the plot feels contrived and exaggerated. Overall, I was highly disappointed with this book and would not recommend it to anyone seeking an accurate or respectful portrayal of Navajo culture.
2. Sarah - 2/5 - As someone who is of Navajo descent, I was excited to read "Navajo magic practitioner expulsion" and see a story that explored the rich history and traditions of my culture. However, I was deeply disappointed with the portrayal in this book. The author's lack of research and understanding is evident throughout, resulting in a distorted and superficial representation of Navajo practices. It is clear that the author relied on stereotypes and misconceptions rather than true cultural knowledge. I would advise readers to seek out more authentic and respectful sources if they are interested in learning about Navajo culture.
3. Lisa - 1/5 - I couldn't even finish "Navajo magic practitioner expulsion" due to its offensive and insensitive portrayal of Navajo culture. The book romanticizes and appropriates sacred practices, reducing them to mere plot devices without any genuine understanding or appreciation. The characters are one-dimensional and lack depth, making it difficult to connect or sympathize with them. I would caution anyone against reading this book if they are looking for an accurate or respectful representation of Navajo culture.