A Methodology for Modern African Religious Movements

Bibliographic Data

ID2106663
AuthorsHarold W Turner (University of Nigeria, corresponding author)
Year1966
Volume8
Issue3
Pages281-294
Publication date1966-04-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueComparative Studies in Society and History (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0010-4175 • E-ISSN: 1475-2999
PublisherCambridge University Press (CUP) (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1017/s0010417500004084
OpenAlexW2129895279
LanguageEN
Citations received6
References cited11

The existence of a widespread religious phenomenon in Africa appearing under many names, in corporate manifestations as new groups and in individual form as new prophets, is evidenced in many ways. Even the most casual observer driving through a large African town cannot fail to notice the succession of exotic names on sign boards or to meet a white-robed religious procession, and if he tries to trace the bell-ringing, drumming, and chanting that fill the night air for hours on end the chances are that he will be led to one of these sign boards and to some humble structure filled with tireless worshippers. Occasionally the bizarre behaviour of a prophet or 'sect' provides material for the journalist seeking sensation, or leads to an appearance in the police courts, or even to military action, as in Northern Rhodesia in 1964 against the Lenshina movement. Strange churches apply for membership of Christian councils, and ministers and missionaries are perplexed when some of their members secure spiritual help from a semi-literate prophet, or transfer their allegiance to an unknown church with an outlandish name

Allegiance · Ancient history · Art · Casual · Harmony (color) · Notice · Political science · Politics · Procession · Sect · Sign (mathematics) · Summons · Visual arts · African cultural and philosophical studies · African history and culture analysis · History · Law

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