article
Mushahara: a Nubian concept of supernatural danger and the theory of taboo
American anthropologist • 69 (6) • Published In 1967 • Pages: 685-702
By: Kennedy, John G..
Abstract
This document provides a theoretically-informed analysis of the cultural meanings and psychosocial functions underlying the traditional Nubian concept of supernatural harm caused to individuals in vulnerable states by other persons' violation of taboos. It is believed that individuals and families undergoing certain life-cycle events (such as birth, circumcision, marriage, and death) attract capricious spirit-beings, which are countered by a range of religious prohibitions and moral sanctions aimed at avoiding the threat by appeasing the spirits. The most important measures taken include avoiding sexual intercourse after birth, temporarily secluding newlyweds and grieving family members, and removing gold and other potentially contaminated materials when attending life-crisis events. The author points out the limitations of both functionalist and Freudian approaches for explaining the distinctively Nubian meanings of these practices.
- Region
- Africa
- Sub Region
- Northern Africa
- Document Type
- article
- Evaluation
- Creator Type
- Anthropologist
- Document Rating
- 5: Excellent Primary Data
- Analyst
- Teferi Abate Adem ; 2020
- Field Date
- 1962-1965
- Coverage Date
- 1933-1965
- Coverage Place
- Aswan Governate, Egypt
- Notes
- John G. Kennedy
- bibliographical references (p. 702)
- LCCN
- 17015424
- LCSH
- Nubians--Egypt--Social life and customs