'Orthodox Christianity, New Age Spirituality and Vernacular Religion in Greece

Book Description

Through meticulous fieldwork in contemporary Greece, anthropologist Eugenia Roussou unveils a fascinating spiritual landscape where ancient Orthodox Christianity intersects with modern New Age practices in unexpected ways. This groundbreaking study reveals how globalization has transformed traditional religious expression, creating innovative blends of faith and spirituality that challenge conventional assumptions about European religiosity.

At the heart of Roussou's exploration lies the enduring belief in the "evil eye," a folk tradition that serves as a bridge connecting Orthodox Christian practices with contemporary alternative spirituality. Rather than viewing these as conflicting worldviews, the author demonstrates how Greek practitioners seamlessly weave together elements from both traditions in their daily spiritual lives.

The book examines how individuals navigate this rich spiritual marketplace, drawing from healing practices, ritual performances, and material religious culture to create personalized approaches to the sacred. Roussou's work illuminates broader questions about how traditional communities adapt their spiritual practices in an increasingly interconnected world while maintaining cultural authenticity.

For readers interested in understanding how ancient wisdom traditions evolve and merge with contemporary spiritual movements, this study offers valuable insights into the creative ways people construct meaning and seek healing in modern multicultural societies. The research provides a compelling example of how spirituality transcends rigid boundaries, revealing the fluid nature of religious experience in our globalized age.