Ritual: Power, Healing, and Community (Compass) by Malidoma Patrice Some (December 1, 1997) Paperback Paperback – 1703

This book contains some interesting and thought-provoking information about ritual, particularly the funerary rites practised by the Dagara tribe, which I found rather wonderful; the psychological benefits of such a ceremony, both for the individual and the community, are patently obvious. However, he also presented some anecdotes that failed to prove whatever it was the author hoped to show by sharing them. It was as though the author believed that by explaining that he believes some incident or other was caused by the anger or need of some dead ancestor, that A. This is therefore fact and that, B. This is the case in every similar scenario.Besides the ritual animal sacrifice discussed, I was shocked to read that his Grandfather went so far as killing a buzzard for s***ting on his head - because elders deserve respect and command it not only from other humans but also from animals. Odd, to say the least...Mr Some's observations about modern life are correct - but are also obvious to many of us or, at least, nothing new. TBH, I'm a little disappointed based on the reviews here.3 Stars.

Ritual is a great book.It compares african to western culture and shows how we lost our spirituality, and how much we need to get back to it.

it has been so very long now since i read this book....but i met this young man when i was training to be a Yoga Teacher in the Bahamas in 2007....and something that he told me made me want to know more about him and his journeyif you like a bit of dark in your journey....have a read of this....a very different view from the innocent one that i had....but then ...that is all part of the journeyi prefer innocence....but I do thank Malidoma Patrice Some for his insights and guidance upon the darker path that i have travelledthank you

I like the straightforward concepts - so easy to understand and absorb.It would be helpful if more people could read it!

I'm looking forward to reading this . My daughter is bringing it as I live in another country

This book is for those searching, those wanting to unite and for those that are growing. A wonderfully written book, a prized craft on my shelf.