Quest for Harmony
"Finally I have found a book that combines many of the aspects I like to see included in readings for a course in Native American religions. . . . This publication combines historical overview and geographical diversity in its presentation of four Native American traditions. It includes the importance of the land, less well-known events and episodes in North American history, stereotyping, and contemporary problems and accomplishments."
—Anine Singh-de Grood, Department of Religious Studies, Oklahoma State University
SKU
26882g
A reprint of the 2002 Seven Bridges Press edition.
Quest for Harmony provides a basic understanding of the cultures and spiritual teachings of four Native American nations—Lenape (Delaware), Ani'-Yun'-wiya (Cherokee), Lakota (Sioux), and Diné (Navajo). The text is always sympathetic, respectful, and, when possible, presented in the voices of Native Americans. Each nation is described in terms of its name, traditional location(s), present population, language, and traditional social organization. At least one story of origin is provided for each nation, followed by a survey of its history from earliest documented times until recent times.
At the heart of each chapter, the spiritual worldview and rituals of the nation being discussed are introduced, with sections on cosmology, gods and spirits, rituals, and other issues particular to that nation. Critical issues common to Native Americans such as the pannational spiritual movements and the environment are also covered. Quest for Harmony makes clear that not only are Native American spiritual traditions very much alive, they are also in the midst of a dramatic revival.
Reviews:
"Finally I have found a book that combines many of the aspects I like to see included in readings for a course in Native American religions. . . . This publication combines historical overview and geographical diversity in its presentation of four Native American traditions. It includes the importance of the land, less well-known events and episodes in North American history, stereotyping, and contemporary problems and accomplishments."
—Anine Singh-de Grood, Department of Religious Studies, Oklahoma State University
About the Author:
William A. Young is Professor of Religious Studies at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri. His other books include The World's Religions: Worldviews and Contemporary Issues and An Introduction to the Bible: A Journey into Three Worlds.
