The Hidden Influence on Hoodoo: Unveiling the Secrets of Powwowing and the Mysterious Sixth and Seventh Books of Moses!
There is a wonderful article here about Powwowing, a practice that has probably had more influence over hoodoo than it's given credit for. Particularly interesting is the part about the Sixth and Seventh Books of Moses (sometimes called the "Hoodoo Bible.")
Powwowing: A Persistent American Esoteric Tradition by David W. Kriebel, Ph.D., explores the practice of powwowing, an enduring tradition of folk healing and magic in America, particularly within Pennsylvania Dutch communities. This tradition, rooted in a blend of Christian faith and folk medicine, has managed to persist from its European origins to contemporary times, despite modernization and skepticism.
Powwowing, also known as Braucherei, has its roots in medieval European healing practices, which were brought to America by German immigrants in the 18th century. These settlers, primarily of the Pennsylvania Dutch community, integrated their Christian beliefs with folk remedies, forming a unique system of healing. The tradition involves a mix of prayers, charms, and rituals aimed at curing ailments, protecting against harm, and ensuring good fortune.
Powwowing is primarily an oral tradition, passed down through generations within families and communities. This mode of transmission has contributed to its persistence, allowing it to adapt to changing times while maintaining core practices. Practitioners, known as powwowers, often start learning the craft in childhood, receiving instruction from family members or local mentors. This esoteric knowledge is considered a sacred trust, often kept within a select group to maintain its potency and integrity.
The practices of powwowing include a range of rituals and remedies. Common elements involve the use of religious texts, such as the Bible, and esoteric books like "The Long Lost Friend" by Johann George Hohman, which contains recipes for cures and protective charms. Powwowers perform rituals for various purposes, including healing physical and spiritual ailments, protecting livestock, and ensuring bountiful harvests. Central to these practices is the belief in the power of words and the divine, with prayers and incantations playing a crucial role in the healing process.
Despite the rise of modern medicine and scientific skepticism, powwowing has shown remarkable resilience. This persistence can be attributed to several factors. First, it provides a sense of cultural identity and continuity for the Pennsylvania Dutch community. Second, it offers an alternative form of healing that is personal and spiritually fulfilling. Additionally, the adaptability of powwowing practices has allowed them to coexist with contemporary beliefs and medical practices.
In the modern era, powwowing faces challenges such as the decline of rural communities and the dispersal of the Pennsylvania Dutch population. However, it continues to survive, with some individuals and groups actively working to preserve and document the tradition. The practice has also seen a resurgence of interest from both within and outside the community, with a growing appreciation for its cultural and historical significance.
Powwowing represents a fascinating example of an esoteric tradition that has endured through centuries, adapting to cultural changes while maintaining its core principles. Its persistence highlights the deep-rooted human need for spiritual and holistic approaches to health and well-being. As a living tradition, powwowing continues to evolve, reflecting the dynamic interplay between tradition and modernity in American folk culture.