White sage, bears, and territory: contemporary indigenous religion among the Chumash

ABSTRACT

Since the 1960s, indigenous revitalization has been widespread in Native North America. However, few systematic studies of contemporary indigenous religion exist. This article provides an in-depth analysis of revitalized beliefs and practices as they are lived among the Chumash of Southern California. Shaped by a colonial history that almost eradicated indigenous culture, Chumash tradition is reinterpreted through religious practices that ground it in local territory and anchor it in pre-Catholic traditions. Although postcolonial agendas are significant in indigenous Chumash religion has existential significance beyond ethnicity politics. Contemporary Paganism is employed as a comparative perspective to discuss how religion provides a way for individuals to define and explore their cultural specificities when they relate to and participate in globalized society. The practices of healing, cleansing, and divination as well as beliefs in the unity with animals, spirits, and ancestors form a framework not only for individuals’ search for meaning, but also for reestablishing community.

KEYWORDS:

• Chumash religion
• indigenous revitalization
• contemporary Paganism
• Native American culture
• pan-Indian spirituality

Acknowledgments

I acknowledge Armin W. Geertz, John R. Johnson, Jan Timbrook, Tove Tybjerg, Jesper Sørensen, the Center for Contemporary Religion at Aarhus University, Denmark, the Research Unit for the History of Religion at Aarhus University, Denmark, Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History as well as all the Chumash who provided information. Informed consent was obtained from all Chumash consultants in accordance with the Danish Data Protection Act.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Notes

1. I use the term ‘consultants’ to refer to the Chumash I interviewed for this research to acknowledge their significant contribution to the project.

2. Due to the highly politicized context, I do not include direct quotes from consultants in the analysis because it is a priority to keep their anonymity.

3. As most consultants used ‘Creator’ without a definite article, this usage is retained in this article.

4. Bear ceremonialism was widespread in traditional religions all over the Northern Hemisphere (Hallowell 1926) and bears are still held to be sacred among many Native American peoples.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Ella Paldam

Ella Paldam holds a PhD in the study of religion from Aarhus University, Denmark. Her doctoral research was carried out among the Chumash of Southern California. Other research areas include Charismatic Christian prayer healing, the historical development of the Church of Denmark since 1300, and contemporary paganism in Denmark. She is a Research Assistant in the Interacting Minds Centre, Department of the Study of Religion at Aarhus University, Denmark.