Customer Reviews

In the Beginning: The Navajo Genesis

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This book attempts to delve into the beginning of creation through Navajo eyes. It explores the myths and legneds and attempts to explain the meanings behind them but unfortunately leaves the reader somewhat confused. It attempts to demonstrate a comparative analysis between Navajo religion, Christianity and Judaisn. It does show how similar these relighions are; the only difference is the Navajo do not have a deity but instead pray to many that represent different problems in life and for different reasons. What is fell short on was to help the reader to understand just what these myths represent and who they represent in their comparative analysis. I do believe the Navajo elders they spoke to were not in agreement as to the meaning or representation of "Changing Woman", Begocidi" and "Coyote" to name a few. My understanding from the book was that these particular actors represented many things, and the elders said as much but disagreed on the interpretation of the myths. This is what I as a reader in trying to understand "navajo" was confused by. If it can't be explaind fully, then how can the reader understand it?
This is a culture that needs to be explained and explored in more depth but in "plain English". The author is an academic professional and reviews this subject from an academic standpoint which does not even begin to touch the meaning and understanding of the Navajo religion
However, what this book did do was inspire me to seek out more readings in this area. One book just doesn't do it.

Anyone interested in Native American Culture should not read this one first. Read the "Dine History" and "Navaho Symbols of Healing" first. These two books give you a better understanding into the background and history of the Native Americans and their culture. Once you understand "where they are coming from" and understand why they do what they do you will then be able to understand how their everyday life and connection with the Earth is part of their religion. It is their religion.
This book explores a comparative analysis between Judaism, Christianity and the Navaho religion/culture. There are some definite similarities. You will see where much of our many religions came from and how they sprang up from "the beginnings".
Written in academic style, it is a bit dry but very very interesting and gives you a true understanding of the Native American, cuts through the Myths and Legends and more.