article
Spirit possession as an indigenous religion in Japan and Okinawa
Senri ethnological studies • (11) • Published In 1984 • Pages: 75-84
By: Sasaki, Kokan, Kokuritsu Minzokugaku Hakubutsukan.
Abstract
In this study of spirit possession in Japan and Okinawa, the author Sasaki examines different cases of spirit possession and the state of psychological distress called KAMIDARI that precedes the initial experience of possession. Sasaki argues that social acceptance of episodes of insanity serves an important function in relieving personal frustration and maintaining social order. On Okinawa one finds only women shamans and priestesses, whereas men occupy roles of political leadership, reflecting a fascinating institutionalization of gender relations.
- HRAF PubDate
- 2000
- Region
- Asia
- Sub Region
- East Asia
- Document Type
- article
- Evaluation
- Creator Type
- Ethnographer
- Document Rating
- 4: Excellent Secondary Data
- 5: Excellent Primary Data
- Analyst
- Ian Skoggard ; 2000
- Field Date
- Not Specified
- Coverage Date
- not specified
- Coverage Place
- Japan
- Notes
- Kokan Sasaki
- Includes bibliographical references (p. 83-84)
- LCCN
- 82641261
- LCSH
- Ryukyuans