The Religious Life of the Zuñi Child

Name: The Religious Life of the Zuñi Child
Author: Matilda Coxe Stevenson

By Matilda Coxe Stevenson

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About This Book

An ethnographic portrait of Zuñi childhood religion outlines origin myths and the sacred landscape, birth and naming customs, and the rites that induct boys into ritual societies. It details kiva ceremonies, masked performers, the roles of priests and godparents, ceremonial sprinkling of holy water, planting of plume sticks, temporary dietary restrictions, and the distribution of sacred seeds. The account describes both involuntary and voluntary initiation practices, including public chastening and the revelation of masked identities, and emphasizes prayers, secrecy vows, offerings at shrines and sand altars, and the communal transmission of religious knowledge and identity across generations.

About the Author

Matilda Coxe Stevenson

Matilda Coxe Stevenson was an American ethnologist and writer known for her contributions to the study of Native American cultures, particularly the Zuni and Sia tribes. Her notable work, "The Religious Life of the Zuñi Child," explores the spiritual practices and beliefs of the Zuni people, providing valuable insights into their cultural heritage. Stevenson was a pioneering figure in anthropology during the late 19th century, and her writings reflect a deep respect for the traditions and rituals of the communities she studied. Through her research, she helped to document and preserve the rich cultural narratives of Indigenous peoples.