Recognising other dimensions of epistemology: conceptualisation of 'abosom' ('deities') in Ghanaian experience

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Periodical article

Title:	Recognising other dimensions of epistemology: conceptualisation of 'abosom' ('deities') in Ghanaian experience
Author:	Sackey, Brigid M.
Year:	2000
Periodical:	Research Review (ISSN 0855-4412)
Volume:	16
Issue:	1
Pages:	13-30
Language:	English
Notes:	biblio. refs.
Geographic terms:	Ghana West Africa
Subjects:	African religions deities Akan religion Knowledge Gods Traditional culture Christianity
Abstract:	Drawing on insights from Ghanaian epistemology and cultural practices mainly from documented sources and personal interviews, the author rethinks basic ideas about the 'abosom' ('deities') and their relationship with human society, particularly in the use of spiritual knowledge to solve human problems. She argues that the concept of 'abosom' should be understood as part and parcel of the Akan religious heritage in Ghana. It is a source of knowledge, particularly in the area of medicine and morality, which in turn forms the basis of human survival. The 'abosom' therefore cannot be completely jettisoned, as the Christian missionary enterprise would like. Moreover, consulting 'abosom' or shrine healing, a practice regarded by Christian missionaries as pagan and barbaric, is not tantamount to becoming a shrine worshipper. Bibliogr., notes, ref. [ASC Leiden abstract]