essay

Zuni religion and world views

handbook of north american indians. southwest • 9 • Published In 1979 • Pages: 499-508

By: Tedlock, Dennis.

Abstract

In this study Tedlock presents a resumT of the major features of Zuni religion including data on the spirit world, mythology, sacrifices and offerings, purification ceremonies and the priesthood. Much of the article deals with the Kachina Society, their masked dances, and function and role in Zuni society. Closely allied to the Kachina Society, are 14 smaller societies of a more esoteric nature, but with direct affect on the life of every Zuni. These include the curing societies, other groups in which members have the knowledge of physical and mental powers that exceed ordinary human capacities (e.g., the Clowns, Sword People, Big Fire People), and the war societies. The work concludes with a discussion of Zuni beliefs about death and the end of the world.

HRAF PubDate

2009

Region

North America

Sub Region

Southwest and Basin

Document Type

essay

Evaluation

Creator Type

Ethnologist

Document Rating

4: Excellent Secondary Data

5: Excellent Primary Data

Analyst

John Beierle; 2007

Field Date

no date

Coverage Date

1895-1971

Coverage Place

Zuni Pueblo, New Mexico, United States

Notes

Dennis Tedlock

Stock number: 047-000-00361-0; For bibliographical references see document 34: [edited by Alfonzo Ortiz]

LCCN

77017162

LCSH

Zuni Indians