CONTENTS
Reading edition
PAGE
Preface 3
Introduction 7
PART I
NATURAL RELIGION
Introductory 19
CHAP.
I. Spirit Beliefs 27
II. Sacrifice 40
III. Sacred Stones or Village Shrines 69
IV. The Firstfruits of Harvest and Planting Ceremonial 73
V. Circumcision Ceremonial 77
VI. Death and Burial Ceremonial 97
VII. The Curse and its Manifestations—
(a) Thahu and its connection with circumcision rites, etc. 103
(b) Purification and blessing 134
(c) The dying curse 145
VIII. Superstitions regarding Children and Women 154
PART II
MAGIC
CHAP. PAGE
Introductory 165
I. The Guild of Smiths in Kikuyu and Ukamba 167
II. The Evil Eye 177
III. Kikuyu Magic and Magicians 184
IV. Miscellaneous Magical Practices 192
PART III
MISCELLANEOUS
CHAP.
Introductory 207
I. The Constitution and Working of Councils 209
II. Laws of Compensation for Murder 230
III. Ceremonial Oaths 239
IV. War and Peace 244
V. Miscellaneous Customs and Beliefs 250
VI. Legends 262
VII. Dances 266
VIII. Women as Factor in Tribal Organisation 274
IX. Some General Remarks 281
X. East Africa after the War 286
L’Envoi 303
Glossary 305
Index 309