Abstract

Discusses the ways in which the supernatural affects many facets of Swazi life. Common incidents include encounters with magical dwarfs, physical illnesses caused by clay effigies, and the use of diviners to find lost items. There are several types of traditional diviners or healers, each of whom undergoes training in the ability to communicate with a particular spirit through possession trance. The conflicts between the traditional and modern Swazi religions are discussed. (14 ref)