article

Spirit possession as an indigenous religion in Japan and Okinawa

Senri ethnological studies • (11) • Published In 1984 • Pages: 75-84

By: Sasaki, Kokan, Kokuritsu Minzokugaku Hakubutsukan.

Abstract
In this study of spirit possession in Japan and Okinawa, the author Sasaki examines different cases of spirit possession and the state of psychological distress called KAMIDARI that precedes the initial experience of possession. Sasaki argues that social acceptance of episodes of insanity serves an important function in relieving personal frustration and maintaining social order. On Okinawa one finds only women shamans and priestesses, whereas men occupy roles of political leadership, reflecting a fascinating institutionalization of gender relations.
Subjects
Adjustment processes
Comparative evidence
Shamans and psychotherapists
Revelation and divination
culture
Okinawans
HRAF PubDate
2000
Region
Asia
Sub Region
East Asia
Document Type
article
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnographer
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Ian Skoggard ; 2000
Field Date
Not Specified
Coverage Date
not specified
Coverage Place
Japan
Notes
Kokan Sasaki
Includes bibliographical references (p. 83-84)
LCCN
82641261
LCSH
Ryukyuans