essay
Hogans, sacred circles and symbols: the Navajo use of space
navajo religion and culture : selected views • (17) • Published In 1982 • Pages: 128-137
By: Kent, Susan.
Abstract
This study examines the relationship between sacred and non-sacred space in the hogan and the various ramifications of this relationship. The circular hogan is considered to be a sacred building, and one in which various religious ceremonies are performed. To the Navajo, the circular shape represents the cosmos, and both the hogan and the cosmos are divided into male and female areas, and in that sense is sex specific, in contrast to ramada and other space. This use of space (i.e., within the hogan) vis-a-vis everywhere else is therefore spoken of as an example of symbolic reversal or inversion which functions as an aid in maintaining a distinct boundary between sacred and secular space (p. 135).
- HRAF PubDate
- 2004
- Region
- North America
- Sub Region
- Southwest and Basin
- Document Type
- essay
- Evaluation
- Creator Type
- Ethnologist
- Document Rating
- 5: Excellent Primary Data
- Analyst
- John Beierle ; 1986
- Field Date
- 1978
- Coverage Date
- 1978
- Coverage Place
- Navajo Mountain area, Utah; Kaibito and Shonto, Arizona; United States
- Notes
- Susan Kent
- Includes bibliographical references (p. 136-137)
- LCCN
- 81086446
- LCSH
- Navajo Indians