Book

Religion, morality, and the person: essays on Tallensi religion

Cambridge University PressCambridge [Cambridgeshire] • Published In 1987 • Pages: xiii, 347

By: Fortes, Meyer, Goody, Jack.

Abstract
This book is concerned with the roles of religion and ritual in shaping the moral life of individuals, domestic groups, lineages and clans among the Tallensi of northern Ghana. The focus is on the meanings and moral implications of Tallensi religious beliefs as reflected in actual practices relating to divination, ancestor worship, succession to political offices and clan totem and taboos. In exploring these issues, the author draw on Marcel Mauss to argue that the Tallensi conceive of 'the person' as first and for most a moral being.
Subjects
General character of religion
Cult of the dead
Avoidance and taboo
Theological systems
Sacred objects and places
Social personality
Personality traits
Kin relationships
Clans
Prayers and sacrifices
Ritual
Ethos
Burial practices and funerals
Spirits and gods
Magicians and diviners
culture
Tallensi
HRAF PubDate
2010
Region
Africa
Sub Region
Western Africa
Document Type
Book
Evaluation
Creator Type
Anthropologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Teferi Abate Adem; 2008
Field Date
1934-1937; 1971
Coverage Date
1930-1971
Coverage Place
Tongo village, Ghana
Notes
Meyer Fortes ; edited and with an introduction by Jack Goody
Includes bibliographical references (p. 327-339)
LCCN
87009382
LCSH
Tallensi (African people)--Religion