California Indian Shamanism

by Lowell John Bean

Articles from ethnographers, a linguist, and Native Americans, all address the topic of Native California shamanism in traditional times and in the present. A feast for the scholar or layman interested in shamanism.

Genres: Anthropology

274 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1992

Reviews

[Annie Flanders · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had so much fun helping edit this book. Yes, if you look in the foreword, as I recall, my name is mentioned at least three times by Lowell -- such a dear, dear man. I SO enjoyed all the years that I worked with him, not only at his CRM firm [Cultural Systems Research, Inc] but also Ballena Press, and when he was the Director of the C E Smith Museum of Anthropology at California State University, Hayward [as it was called in those days long before it's present name of CSUEB].

[Pat MacEwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book collects together a dozen ethnography-based articles on the shamanism practiced by several California First Nations, and another by a linguist concerning ceremonial language, all introduced by the editor, Lowell John Bean, who has mainly worked in Southern California with the Cahuilla Nation but has more than a passing acquaintance with many more. All of the pieces include at least some first-hand accounts of the rituals, beliefs, and practices of those who describe themselves as doctors, dreamers, therapists, weather forecasters, herbalists, prophets and witch finders. Together, they describe several pathways and a good deal of folklore and ancient history related to becoming a shaman, and what the responsibilities of a shaman are. I was especially interested in the discipline required, and amused by the rather caustic opinions of the informants concerning non-Indian New Age enthusiasts who seem never to have heard of the word 'discipline' let alone applied themselves to one. Well-written and illustrated, with a good deal of specific terminology provided and explained. Highly recommended.