The Sacred Void

Spatial Images of Work and Ritual Among the Giriama of Kenya

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Paperback | 16 March 2006

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284 Pages

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22.86 x 15.24 x 1.63

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In this innovative study, David Parkin shows how indigenous African rites and beliefs may be reworked to accommodate a variety of economic systems, new spatial and ecological relations between communities, and the locally variable influences of Islam and Christianity. The Giriama people of Kenya include pastoralists living in the hinterland; farmers, who work land closer to the coast; and migrants, who earn money as labourers or fishermen on the coast itself. Wherever they live, they revere an ancient and formerly fortified capital, located in the pastoralist hinterland, which few of them ever see or visit. Their different perspectives sometimes conflict, but together provide a shifting idea of the sacred place. As the site of occasional large-scale ceremonies, moreover, the settlement becomes especially important at times of national crisis. It then acts as a moral core of Giriama society, and a symbolic defence against total domination and assimilation.

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'Parkin's knowledge of East African societies is second to none ... As with his previous works, it contributes significantly to our understanding of the complexities of change in modern Africa.' Man

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You Can Find This Book In

Non-Fiction Sociology & Anthropology Sociology Sociology & Customs & Traditions Religion & Beliefs Other Non-Christian Religions Tribal Religions Anthropology Physical Anthropology Social & Cultural Anthropology, Ethnography History Regional & National History

African History

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Hardcover

Published: 21st October 1991

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Preface
Introduction
Fantasies of the West
Western Kaya, sacred centre
View from the west: cattle and co-operation
From west to east: the works of marriage
Spanning west and east: dances of death
Alternative authorities: incest and fertility
Alternative selves: invasions and cure
Coastal desires and personal centre
Conclusion
Bibliography
Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.

The Sacred Void

Spatial Images of Work and Ritual Among the Giriama of Kenya

At a Glance

Paperback

Industry Reviews

Shipping

How to return your order

Defective items

You Can Find This Book In

Other Editions and Formats

Hardcover

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