The book of African divination is a comprehensive guide that explores the rich and diverse traditions of divination in Africa. Divination is the practice of seeking knowledge and insight through supernatural means, such as consulting spirits or casting lots. This book delves into the history, philosophy, and techniques of divination in Africa, providing a fascinating insight into the various methods used across the continent. One of the main highlights of the book is its examination of the different divination systems found in different African cultures. These systems range from the popular Ifa divination of the Yoruba people to the bone-casting practices of the Sangoma healers in Southern Africa. The book not only presents an overview of these different systems but also delves into their symbolism and interpretations, offering deeper insights into their significance.
The Initiation of a Zulu Diviner
The essays in this collection provide a very useful overview of both the diversity of African divination systems and of recent approaches to their study. The essays that follow are divided into five sections that explore, in turn, the identity of the diviner; comparative and historical issues; the central role of divination in the articulation of cultural ideas, norms, and values within society; the making of knowledge through the divinatory process; and the integration of normal and nonnormal ways of knowing within the divination process.
The book not only presents an overview of these different systems but also delves into their symbolism and interpretations, offering deeper insights into their significance. Moreover, the book explores the role of divination in African society and its significance in various aspects of life. Divination is not only used for predicting the future but also plays a crucial role in decision-making, conflict resolution, and healing practices.
African Divination Systems : Ways of Knowing
The essays in this collection provide a very useful overview of both the diversity of African divination systems and of recent approaches to their study. The introduction critically reviews the preoccupations of earlier students of African divination. The essays that follow are divided into five sections that explore, in turn, the identity of the diviner; comparative and historical issues; the central role of divination in the articulation of cultural ideas, norms, and values within society; the making of knowledge through the divinatory process; and the integration of normal and nonnormal ways of knowing within the divination process. Although all of the essays provide rich ethnographic data, the essays in the fourth and fifth section are the most interesting from a theoretical perspective. They provide the clearest critique of previous positivist approaches to divination, which focus on the outcomes of the divinatory process while failing to appreciate the meanings and truths that inhere to, and are articulated by, the process itself. Of particular interest are the facinating articles by Rosalind Shaw and Philip Peek. Highly recommended for advanced undergraduates.
Содержание
The Study of Divination Present and Past
Becoming a Diviner
The Initiation of a Zulu Diviner
The Search for Knowledge
Nilotic Cosmology and the Divination of Atuot Philosophy
The Antemoro Case and the Diffusion of Divination
Cultural Systems within Divination Systems
Diviners as Alienists and Annunciators among the Batammaliba of Togo
Divination Epistemology and Truth
Epistemological Aspects of Temne Divination
Knowledge and Power in Nyole Divination
Simultaneity and Sequencing in the Oracular Speech of Kenyan Diviners
Toward a New Approach to Divination
NonNormal Modes of Cognition
The Search for Knowledge
It is seen as a means of communicating with the spiritual world and seeking guidance from ancestral spirits, gods, or deities. This book provides a comprehensive understanding of how divination is woven into the fabric of African culture and community. Furthermore, the book analyzes the historical and cultural contexts in which divination practices developed and evolved. It delves into the influences of colonialism, Christianity, and Islam on African divination, highlighting the ways in which these external forces have impacted traditional practices. The book also addresses the ongoing challenges faced by divination practitioners in the modern world, as they navigate between traditional beliefs and the pressures of globalization. Overall, the book of African divination offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the diverse divination practices found across the African continent. It provides a deep understanding of the cultural, historical, and spiritual significance of divination in African societies. With its rich content and detailed analysis, this book is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in African spirituality, anthropology, or divination practices..
Reviews for "African Divination: An Introduction to the Book and Its Significance"
1. John - 2/5 Rating: I was really excited to read "The Book of African Divination" as I had heard so many great things about it. However, I was sorely disappointed. The book lacked depth and proper explanations of the various divination systems discussed. I found it difficult to follow and understand the concepts presented. Additionally, the author used overly complicated language, making it even harder to grasp the material. Overall, this book did not meet my expectations and I would not recommend it to others seeking a comprehensive understanding of African divination.
2. Sarah - 1/5 Rating: I found "The Book of African Divination" to be extremely culturally insensitive. The author approached the topic with a Western-centric lens, failing to respect and appreciate the rich traditions and belief systems of African cultures. The book seemed to exoticize African divination practices, reducing them to mere entertainment for Western readers. Moreover, the lack of proper research and understanding of the subject matter was evident throughout the book. It felt like a shallow attempt to capitalize on an ancient practice without truly delving into its significance. I strongly recommend avoiding this book if you are looking for an authentic and respectful exploration of African divination.
3. Emma - 2/5 Rating: As someone with a keen interest in divination practices, I was looking forward to learning more about African divination through this book. However, I found it to be overly simplistic and lacking in substance. The author did not provide enough historical context or in-depth explanations of the divination systems discussed. The book felt rushed and incomplete, leaving me with more questions than answers. I would have appreciated a more comprehensive exploration of the subject matter, perhaps including personal anecdotes or case studies to illustrate the practical aspects of African divination. Unfortunately, this book did not meet my expectations.