ABSTRACT

Originally published in 1959, this book includes detailed accounts of Nyakyusa traditions of origin,  osmology and moral values, often in direct quotations from informants, while part of the book is devoted to a description of Christian missions, the growth of African churches and the conflict between pagan and Christian ethics and practices. The analysis of the effects of cchanges in the social and economic structure on the one hand, and religious beliefs and practices on the other, makes this a study of enduring relevance.

chapter I|6 pages

Introductory

chapter II|10 pages

The Mythological Charter

chapter III|32 pages

The ‘Divine Kings’

chapter IV|21 pages

The Ritual of Chieftainship

chapter V|18 pages

Sacrifices at the Groves of Chiefs

chapter VI|14 pages

Land and Power

chapter VII|12 pages

Cleansing the Country

chapter IX|19 pages

Kasitile the Priest

chapter X|12 pages

Medicines

chapter XI|12 pages

Nyakyusa Cosmology

chapter XII|37 pages

Pagan and Christian

chapter XIII|13 pages

Twenty Years’ Change

chapter XIV|8 pages

Religion and Social Structure