Figurative and poetic language in indigenous healing: an African perspective

bibliographic database
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Periodical article

Title:	Figurative and poetic language in indigenous healing: an African perspective
Authors:	Makgopa, Mokgale Koma, Magaelane
Year:	2009
Periodical:	Indilinga: African Journal of Indigenous Knowledge Systems (ISSN 1683-0296)
Volume:	8
Issue:	2
Pages:	147-157
Language:	English
Geographic terms:	Africa South Africa
Subjects:	healing rites divination healers praise poetry
Abstract:	This article highlights the significance of the connection that exists between indigenous healing and poetic language use, particularly praising. One indigenous healer from the Tubatse Local Municipality (Limpopo Province, South Africa) was requested to participate in the study. Data was collected by using interviewing and participant observation methods. The investigation focused primarily on the different kinds of spatial arrangements occurring after the fall of divination bones and their interpretations by the indigenous healer. The study found that praising in indigenous healing plays a significant role. Through praising, the problems of the patient are brought to the fore. It was also found that figurative and poetic language is used to praise the divination bones before and after their fall. Praising was also found to be used, in some instances, to refer to the disease that the patient might be suffering from. The different kinds of animal totems and their interpretation are also discussed. Bibliogr., sum. [Journal abstract, edited]