article

Divination and experience: explorations of a Chagga epistemology

journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute12 (2) • Published In 2006 • Pages: 313-330

By: Myhre, Knut Christian.

Abstract
This article argues that anthropological approaches to African divination are characterized by a certain epistemology, which creates specific problems with regard to vernacular truth-claims. Using ethnographic material from the Chagga-speaking people of Kilimanjaro, the article traces the multiple overlapping ramifications that interrelate vernacular concepts, physical objects, and local subjectivities. By thus avoiding reductionist arguments, the article endeavors to demonstrate that careful attention to these complex lateral relationships reveals how local diviners are able 'to see', or 'be shown', the 'truth' pertaining to their clients.
Subjects
Revelation and divination
Magic
Cult of the dead
Prayers and sacrifices
Sacred objects and places
Settlement patterns
Community structure
Kin relationships
Household
Theory of disease
Medical therapy
Real property
culture
Chagga
HRAF PubDate
2010
Region
Africa
Sub Region
Eastern Africa
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Type
Anthropologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Teferi Abate Adem; 2010
Field Date
1998-2003
Coverage Date
1998-2003
Coverage Place
Chagga, Tanzania
Notes
Knut Christian Myhre
Includes bibliographical references (p. 328-330)
LCCN
95660943
LCSH
Chaga (African people)