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<p>In many African religions, traditional authority figures such as chiefs or kings also serve as spiritual leaders. A key ritual they perform is rainmaking, since rain symbolizes power and is closely linked to the chiefdom. I explain how these rainmaking rituals vary among different ethnic groups, emphasizing a strong mental connection between the leader and the community’s well-being. Both the discourses and ritual practices related to rainmaking highlight this bond, transforming rain into a political-religious sphere that can sometimes pose serious risks to the ruler. This relationship is not just a historical issue but remains highly relevant today, especially as climate change has renewed interest in this type of religious practice.</p>

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Rain: The Arena of Power and Religion in Africa

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

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  • 发表日期：

    2025年9月25日

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  • Walter E.A. van Beek

摘要

In many African religions, traditional authority figures such as chiefs or kings also serve as spiritual leaders. A key ritual they perform is rainmaking, since rain symbolizes power and is closely linked to the chiefdom. I explain how these rainmaking rituals vary among different ethnic groups, emphasizing a strong mental connection between the leader and the community’s well-being. Both the discourses and ritual practices related to rainmaking highlight this bond, transforming rain into a political-religious sphere that can sometimes pose serious risks to the ruler. This relationship is not just a historical issue but remains highly relevant today, especially as climate change has renewed interest in this type of religious practice.