Sacred Language: The Nature of Supernatural Discourse in Lakota (Civilization of the American Indian) [Paperback]

William K. Powers (Author)

Product Details

• Paperback: 264 pages
• Publisher: University of Oklahoma Press (September 1992)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 080612458X
• ISBN-13: 978-0806124582
• Product Dimensions: 8.1 x 5.2 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,065,696 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #98 in Books > Education & Reference > Foreign Languages > Instruction > Native American

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

18 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A scholarly discourse on Lakota Sacred Language., January 28, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Sacred Language: The Nature of Supernatural Discourse in Lakota (Civilization of the American Indian) (Paperback)

This is not for someone just trying to get a grasp of the general ideas of Lakota spirituality. This is a very detailed scholarly work about Lakota language as is it used by spiritual leaders and the meanings implied. If you are looking for something spiritual or emotional this probably isn't it, if you're looking for something more cerebral and you are a serious student of the Lakota then this is a must read.

13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Sacred Language The Nature of Discourse in Lakota, March 13, 2000

By 

Clay Turtle (Inlikita, Fla.) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Sacred Language: The Nature of Supernatural Discourse in Lakota (Civilization of the American Indian) (Paperback)

As a student of Natural Spirituality I had acquired many books on Native Traditions which were lost (stolen) to me. This text was the first on my list to be replaced. Powers, himself calls his work a beginers lexicon of the Lakota language which makes it worthy in itself. His work extends beyond that with excellent insight into the song (music) which is a vital ingredient to the sacred traditions of the Lakota. He has an academic's passion for varification with other sourses which will provide a viable list of sources for future studies for those who appitite is only wetted with this volume. He is more of an academic than student,so be aware that it isn't light reading nor is it a 'how to guide to indian religion'. It is a well documented guide to basic belief system of the Lakota through his comprehension. While not complete, he has a sound basic understanding of 'the Sacred' to share with his readers

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An indepth study of the Lakota Spiritual World View., November 21, 1997

By A Customer

This review is from: Sacred Language: The Nature of Supernatural Discourse in Lakota (Civilization of the American Indian) (Paperback)

This excellent discourse was produced by a man who lived with and learned from the old learned men of the Lakota, the "wicasa wakan", the "spiritual men".

Not for the casual reader, this book is great scholarly reading for those who strive to understand the very essense of religious thought.