White sage, bears, and territory: contemporary indigenous religion among the Chumash

Since the 1960s, indigenous revitalization has been widespread in Native North America. However, few systematic studies of contemporary indigenous religion exist. This article provides an in-depth analysis of revitalized beliefs and practices as they are lived among the Chumash of Southern Californi...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of contemporary religion
Main Author: Paldam, Ella (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
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Published: Carfax Publ. [2018]
In: Journal of contemporary religion
Standardized Subjects / Keyword chains:B Christianity / Folk religion / Influence / Chumash / Nature religion
RelBib Classification:CC Christianity and Non-Christian religion; Inter-religious relations
KBQ North America
Further subjects:B Native American culture
B pan-Indian spirituality
B Contemporary Paganism
B Chumash religion
B indigenous revitalization
Online Access: Volltext (Verlag)
Description
Summary:Since the 1960s, indigenous revitalization has been widespread in Native North America. However, few systematic studies of contemporary indigenous religion exist. This article provides an in-depth analysis of revitalized beliefs and practices as they are lived among the Chumash of Southern California. Shaped by a colonial history that almost eradicated indigenous culture, Chumash tradition is reinterpreted through religious practices that ground it in local territory and anchor it in pre-Catholic traditions. Although postcolonial agendas are significant in indigenous Chumash religion has existential significance beyond ethnicity politics. Contemporary Paganism is employed as a comparative perspective to discuss how religion provides a way for individuals to define and explore their cultural specificities when they relate to and participate in globalized society. The practices of healing, cleansing, and divination as well as beliefs in the unity with animals, spirits, and ancestors form a framework not only for individuals' search for meaning, but also for reestablishing community.
ISSN:1469-9419
Contains:Enthalten in: Journal of contemporary religion
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.1080/13537903.2018.1535374