Creole religions of the Caribbean

Book Description

In the vibrant tapestry of Caribbean spirituality, diverse traditions have woven together to create something entirely new. This comprehensive exploration reveals how enslaved Africans, European colonizers, and indigenous peoples forged innovative spiritual practices within the harsh realities of plantation life.

Drawing from African healing wisdom, Christian teachings, and Amerindian customs, Caribbean communities birthed remarkable religious systems that continue to flourish today. Readers will discover the rich foundations of Vodou, Santería, Regla de Palo, and the mysterious Abakuá Secret Society, alongside Obeah, Quimbois, and Espiritismo. The authors also examine more recent movements like Pocomania and Rastafarianism, showing how spiritual innovation continues across generations.

This updated edition extends beyond the Caribbean islands to explore how these traditions influence Latino communities in the United States, demonstrating the ongoing power of creolization. The book illuminates how these spiritual practices express themselves through art, music, literature, and healing methods, offering readers a holistic understanding of living traditions.

For those seeking to understand how different spiritual paths can merge and transform, this scholarly yet accessible work provides invaluable insights into the creative power of religious synthesis. It reveals how communities under pressure can forge new pathways to the sacred, creating traditions that honor multiple ancestries while addressing contemporary spiritual needs.