ABSTRACT
We have been accustomed to speak of this dominating spiritual force as " religion", but it is something much more incisive and comprehensive than what that conventional word commonly implies. The conception of " spirit" is deep and powerful, operating from within, and is not merely an outward conformity to religious observance although it includes that. It is such a prime elemental force that it might quite fairly be described as a sixth sense as much alive, and as keenly active, as the normal five. Due regard for this spiritual sense must have foremost place in the study of an animistic people, because herein is found the motive of action and the key to the solution of many problems connected with native law and custom. Without this faculty of spiritual perception, much in native thought and custom remains obscure, if not completely unintelligible.
