Sangoma's story

'Sangoma's Story' has captured the essence of a modern Zulu healer and clarifies misconceptions about traditional healing in South Africa.
Reeder, Melanie
23806
978-0-14-302616-7
In stock
new
€23.80 *

Title: Sangoma's Story
Subtitle: The calling of Elliot Ndlovu
Authors: Melanie Reeder
Genre: Ethno Esoteric
Publisher: The Penguin Group (South Africa)
Cape Town, South Africa 2011
ISBN 9780143026167 / ISBN 978-0-14-302616-7
Softcover, 15 x 23 cm, 232 pages, numerous photos

Description:

Sangoma Elliot Msawenkosi Ndlovu, a traditional healer, lives deep in the Drakensberg Mountains of KwaZulu-Natal. He lives two lives, dividing time between his rural homestead and a world-class hotel and spa, constantly bridging the differences between these opposing worlds. As a young man, he was awoken in the dead of night by an apparition sent by his ancestors. In terror, he fled to a river where he was submerged until sunrise. On the bottom of a riverbed, the sangoma claimed to acquire all the knowledge of his cultural heritage to heal bodies and minds. Ndlovu is a natural conservationist and leader who believes in the preservation of indigenous flora, in the strength of community, and in ubuntu, the philosophy that the universal bonds of humanity are what bind us. KwaZulu-Natal's violent path to democracy mirrored his own turbulent journey through mental illness, his uthwasa, the necessary process of suffering to become a traditional sangoma. But torment and tragedy led to consultations with Oscar nominees in Hollywood, a meeting with the British Queen, and a Christmas visit from a former state president. Ndlovu's tales of storm-chasing and magical serpents may be challenging for some, but the poignancy of his story and unwavering belief in African traditional healing are what endear him to the most hardened cynic. Melanie Reeder has captured the essence of this modern sangoma. She sheds light on the beauty of Zulu culture, and clarifies misconceptions about traditional healing. Melanie Reeder is an experienced magazine journalist who grew up in the former homeland of Transkei. She holds degrees from Rhodes, Wits, and the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in English literature, publishing, media and cultural studies respectively.

Contents: Sangoma's Story

Introduction: Namhlanje, today
The Cowrie Shell
Red Jasper and Tiger's Eye
The Goafs Bones
The Ifellow Shell
The Toy Car
The African Dream Herb
The Bottle Cap
The Jackal's Tooth
The Fortune Dice
The Oyster Shells
The Coins
The Doll's Head
Glossary
Notes and References
Family Tree