The Sacred Formulas of the Cherokees (Illustrated Edition) (eBook)

James Mooney's 'The Sacred Formulas of the Cherokees (Illustrated Edition)' is a seminal work that serves as a repository for the spiritual and practical knowledge of the Cherokee nation. The compendium, meticulously collected from Cherokee shamans on the North Carolina reservation in the late 19th century, encompasses a vast array of subjects integral to Cherokee life including healing, ritual, and daily practice. Mooney's academic rigor paired with the intrinsic visual culture of the illustrated edition, enhances the readers' engagement with the ancient Cherokee script developed by Sequoyah. The text, underscored by Mooney's analytical perspective, proves vital in the cultural preservation and provides a robust context of Native American ethnology and linguistics within its historical framework. Mooney, an ethnographer with the Bureau of American Ethnology, was profoundly influenced by his work among various Native American tribes, especially the Cherokee. His pursuit of understanding led him to immerse himself within the tribal community, enabling direct collaboration with shamans who entrusted him with their deepest esoteric teachings. The nuanced understanding provided in this book is inherently shaped by Mooney's unique relationships with his Cherokee informants and his commitment to detail. This access resulted in an authentic record that captures the essence of the Cherokee spiritual worldview as well as the sociocultural dynamics of the period. 'The Sacred Formulas of the Cherokees' is a must-read for scholars of Native American history, anthropology, and religious studies, as well as for lay readers with a profound interest in indigenous cultures. Mooney's work transcends mere transcription, offering a visceral connection to Cherokee wisdom and way of life, which is both an academic accomplishment and a cultural bridge. The illustrated edition brings an additional layer of comprehension, enabling readers to visually grasp the encoded knowledge and spirit of a people whose legacy is permanently etched within the book's pages.