Ropes to God

Overview

Sacred practices and symbols of Namibian spiritual healers

In this detailed personal account of traditional healing practices, Bushman doctors from Namibia disclose the defining symbolism, art forms such as rock art, and kinesthetic elements that define Bushman spirituality. Ropes, cords, threads, and lines of light enable the spiritual healers to commune with ancestors and gods, as well as communicate with other Bushman communities. Also documented are the physical movements that facilitate entering the transformative states of hyper-arousal and synesthesia.

Reviews

“A clear, compelling orientation to the core elements of Bushman spiritual life.” —Publishers Weekly

“Keeney combines a psychotherapist's sharp intellect with an experiential practitioner's sincere desire to learn . . . provide[s] new insights into the Bushmen's potent shamanic trance dances.” —Shaman's Drum, #65

“Each book stands alone, but [the series] provides a whole larger than the sum of the parts . . . Breathtaking.” —Milton Erickson Foundation Newsletter

“A culturally sensitive book that truly captivates the reader.” —Healing Lifestyles & Spas

“For students of anthropology or shamanism, this book, especially with its accompanying DVD, adds new dimension to native spiritual understandings.” —ForeWord

Author Biography

Bradford Keeney, PhD, is the author of Gary Holy Bull, Vusamazulu Credo Mutwa, and Walking Thunder.