article
The Ocimbanda, or witch-doctor of the Ovimbundu of Portuguese southwest Africa
Journal of American folk-lore • 12 • Published In 1899 • Pages: 183-188
By: Dorsey, George Amos.
Abstract
This source deals with the role of the Ocimbanda, the 'witch-doctor,' a combination diviner, magician and medical practitioner, among the Ovimbundu of Angola. The data presented are based on an ethnological collection obtained by a Rev. T.W. Woodside and secured by the Field Columbian Museum. The author discusses the training, garb, and ritual paraphernalia of the Ocimbanda; his role as medical and magical therapist and as diviner. Data are presented regarding the administration of poison ordeals in establishing guilt or innocence in connection with accusations of witchcraft.
- HRAF PubDate
- 2002
- Region
- Africa
- Sub Region
- Southern Africa
- Document Type
- article
- Evaluation
- Creator Type
- Ethnologist
- Document Rating
- 4: Excellent Secondary Data
- 5: Excellent Primary Data
- Analyst
- Eugene Lerner ; 1956
- Field Date
- none
- Coverage Date
- 1899
- Coverage Place
- central Angola
- Notes
- George A. Dorsey
- LCCN
- 17028737
- LCSH
- Mbundu (African people)