Book

Sherpas through their rituals

Cambridge University PressCambridge • Published In 1978 • Pages: 12, 195

By: Ortner, Sherry B..

Abstract
This monograph presents a detailed study of three major Sherpa religious rituals -- the NYUNGNE, or atonement of individuals through fasting and silence; the extended set of exorcism rites following a funeral, designed to cleanse pollution from the participants; and the rites of offerings to the gods to insure the continued protection of the community against the demons. Interwoven throughout the discussion of these rituals is the Sherpa concept of hospitality by means of which the gods are fed and praised and petitioned for their on going support. Ortner also attempts to show how the shaping of consciousness takes place through the individuals participation in the rituals. The author's anslysis of the symbolism of the rituals is often highly theoretical and metaphysical in nature and closely tied-in with the dogma and theology of Sherpa Buddhism.
Subjects
Theoretical orientation in research and its results
Functional and adaptational interpretations
Visiting and hospitality
Burial practices and funerals
General character of religion
Spirits and gods
Prayers and sacrifices
Purification and atonement
Magic
Organized ceremonial
culture
Sherpa
HRAF PubDate
2004
Region
Asia
Sub Region
Central Asia
Document Type
Book
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
John Beierle ; 1991
Field Date
1966-1976
Coverage Date
not specified
Coverage Place
General Everest region, Nepal
Notes
[by] Sherry B. Ortner
Includes bibliographical references (p. 187-189) and index
LCSH
Sherpa (Nepalese people)