John G. Bourke's 'The Medicine-Men of the Apache' delves into the intricate world of Apache medicine men, providing a detailed account of their practices, beliefs, and rituals. Written in a meticulous and scholarly style, the book offers an invaluable insight into the cultural and spiritual significance of these healers within the context of Apache society. Bourke's thorough research and firsthand experiences with the Apache people bring authenticity and depth to his study, making it a must-read for anyone interested in Native American traditions and indigenous healing practices. The narrative is rich with anecdotes and observations, painting a vivid picture of a largely misunderstood aspect of Apache culture. John G. Bourke, an American soldier and ethnologist, draws on his extensive interactions with the Apache tribes to present a nuanced and respectful portrayal of their medicine men. His background in anthropology and military service provided him with a unique perspective that informs his writing, offering a blend of academic rigor and personal insight. Bourke's dedication to understanding and documenting Apache customs shines through in 'The Medicine-Men of the Apache,' making it a seminal work in the field. I highly recommend 'The Medicine-Men of the Apache' to readers interested in anthropology, Native American studies, and cultural history. Bourke's comprehensive study sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of Apache culture and offers a thought-provoking exploration of traditional healing practices.

This eBook has been formatted to the highest digital standards and adjusted for readability on all devices. Who, and what are the medicine-men (or medicine-women), of the American Indians? What powers do they possess in time of peace or war? How is this power obtained, how renewed, how exercised? What is the character of the remedies employed? Are they pharmaceutical, as we employ the term, or are they the superstitious efforts of empirics and charlatans, seeking to deceive and to misguide by pretended consultations with spiritual powers and by reliance upon mysterious and occult influences? Such a discussion will be attempted in this book, which will be restricted to a description of the personality of the medicine-men, the regalia worn, and the powers possessed and claimed. To go farther, and enter into a treatment of the religious ideas, the superstitions, omens, and prayers of these spiritual leaders, would be to open a road without end.

'The Medicine-Men of the Apache' by John Gregory Bourke is a detailed study of the medicine-men of the Apache tribe, including their modes of treating disease, superstitions, and paraphernalia. In addition to medicine-men, the book covers medicine-women, remedies and modes of treatment, hair and wigs, and other traditional Apache practices. The book delves into specific practices such as the use of pollen, sacrificial powder, and other sacred powders and offerings. It also discusses the use of cords, knots, and girdles in parturition, and the significance of amulets, talismans, and phylacteries. This fascinating account provides insight into the beliefs and practices of the Apache people and sheds light on their unique culture.

Through 70 color photographs & accompanying text, the author relates the sacred rites by which an Apache girl becomes a woman.

In his final work, the great and beloved Native American scholar Vine Deloria Jr. takes us into the realm of the spiritual and reveals through eyewitness accounts the immense power of medicine men. The World We Used To Live In, a fascinating collection of anecdotes from tribes across the country, explores everything from healing miracles and scared rituals to Navajos who could move the sun. In this compelling work, which draws upon a lifetime of scholarship, Deloria shows us how ancient powers fit into our modern understanding of science and the cosmos, and how future generations may draw strength from the old ways.