Shamanic Voices: A Survey of Visionary Narratives

by Joan Halifax

Shamans, the physical and spiritual healers who are the central figures of many tribal cultures, share eloquent testimonies including harrowing tales of initiatory rites, vivid accounts of visionary journeys, and revealing expressions of their unique position as the link between the tribe and the cosmos.

Genres: Spirituality, Nonfiction, Anthropology, Psychology, Religion, Unfinished, Philosophy

288 pages, Paperback

First published January 18, 1979

About the author

Joan Halifax is a Zen Buddhist teacher, anthropologist, ecologist, civil rights activist, hospice caregiver, and the author of several books on Buddhism and spirituality. She currently serves as abbot of Upaya Zen Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Halifax has received dharma transmission from both Bernard Glassman and Thich Nhat Hanh, and studied under Korean master Seung Sahn. In the 1970s she collaborated on LSD research projects with her ex-husband Stanislav Grof, in addition to other collaborative efforts with Joseph Campbell and Alan Lomax. As a socially engaged Buddhist, Halifax has done extensive work through her Project on Being with Dying. She is on the board of directors of the Mind and Life Institute, a non-profit organization exploring the relationship between science and Buddhism.

Reviews

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good input for the subconscious mind. Anyone interested in stretching their reality, developing their connection with real life on this planet, and feeling excited about being alive, then this is for you.

[Gabby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting book but hard to really get into. I feel that a video documentary would have been a better delivery of the content in this book.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic. Just fantastic. Many stories and songs and accounts that leave you feeling as if you've spoken to the people themseves at many points. In others it is strictly hearsay and still wondrous. It quenches my imagination :)

[Andrew · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book starts out very promising but sort of peters out toward the end. Still, a worthwhile resource for anybody interested in this topic.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic. I have to say this book is a fine and inspiring read into other people's beliefs, cultures and ideas. It's one I'll go back and re-read sections from a few times.

[Dave · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fascinating read.
The breaking apart of one's identity as a part of life's journey/purpose/higher calling is intriquing.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent survey of stories from shamans throughout the world.