Monsters and caricatures: spirit possession in Tana Toraja
Journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute September 1, 2006 DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-9655.2006.00352.x (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that spirit possession in Tana Toraja healing rituals is intrinsically connected to death and sacrifice, and that the healer's body possesses a 'monstrous' potency that is central to the ritual's efficacy. |
Abstract
Focusing on a specific healing ritual, this article explores the efficacy of spirit possession in Tana Toraja. Framed in terms of indigenous exegesis, this exploration centres on the link between spirit possession and death, which manifests an intrinsic connection between spirit possession and sacrifice. In articulating this connection, the article foregrounds the body of the healer and attempts to explicate its ‘monstrous’ potency.