ABSTRACT
This chapter explores variant of African-American ethno medicine in urban areas, namely the complex which centers upon prophets and advisors in certain highly syncretic sects known as "Spiritual" churches. Particular attention is given to patterns of prophesying in public settings and advising in private settings which Spiritual groups provide both for their adherents and other individuals. The chapter examines the double-edged nature of the complex of folk healers by arguing that while it provides its adherents and clients with a sense of emotional relief, and prevents them from recognizing that many of their personal troubles or "problems of living" derive from the existing social structure of the larger society. It focuses on the ethno-medical aspects of the Black Spiritual religion it merges these two clienteles in speaking of the advisor-client relationship. Therapy goes beyond restoring the sick person to personal well-being but also involves reintegrating him or her into the social group.
