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The Lakota Ritual of the Sweat Lodge: History and Contemporary Practice (Studies in the Anthropology of North American Indians)

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Description

For centuries, a persistent and vital component of Lakota religious life has been the Inipi, the ritual of the sweat lodge. The sweat lodge has changed little in appearance since its first recorded description within the late seventeenth century. The ritual itself consists of songs, prayers, and other actions conducted in a tightly enclosed, dark, and extremely hot environment. Participants who “sweat” together experience moral strengthening, physical healing, and the renewal of social and cultural bonds. Lately, the sweat lodge ritual continues to be an important a part of Lakota religion. It has also been open to make use of, steadily controversial, by non-Indians. The ritual has recently turn into popular among Lakotas recovering from alcohol and drug addiction.
 
This study is the first in-depth take a look at the history and significance of the Lakota sweat lodge. Bringing together data culled from historical sources and fieldwork on Pine Ridge Reservation, Raymond A. Bucko provides a detailed discussion of continuity and changes within the “sweat” ritual through the years. He offers convincing explanations for the longevity of the ceremony and its continuing popularity.

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