How to Engage Voluntary Spirit Possession Rituals in Mission: The Case of the Dendi Adorcism Ritual
Michée B. Badé
Journal of Adventist Mission Studies March 1, 2022 DOI: 10.32597/jams/vol18/iss1/9 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that adorcism rituals, as practiced among the Dendi people of northern Benin, present a unique challenge to Christian mission because they seek and value spirit possession rather than treating it as a problem. Contends that the classical missionary response of exorcism therefore needs critical evaluation. |
Abstract
Missionaries face unique challenges when confronted with spirit possession rituals. Because not all spirit possessions are regarded as negative in some cultures, some spirit possessions are sought through adorcism rituals. Such spirit possessions are considered advantageous for the individual or the community. Contrasted with exorcism which is to expel or bind troublesome or uninvited entities, adorcism creates or strengthens beneficial ties between the possessed person and the spirits (Openshaw 2020:6). This article seeks to show that the practice of adorcism rituals, as is the case among the Dendi people in the northern part of Benin, presents a unique challenge to Christian mission. Therefore, the classical approach to spirit possession with exorcism needs a critical evaluation.