A beautiful introduction to shamanismMay 28, 2007 2 out of 2 found this review helpful
This introduction to shamanism is based on the vivid experience of the author with shamans from native societies and his sometimes dramatic adventure in the realms of the Shamanic State of Conscience. It is a compact but comprehensive report of experiences, techniques and thoughts of shamans and scholars that devoted to the study of shamanism. The book denotes a long period of serious practical learning and research. It presents also a very intersting philosophical and spiritual point of view of the relation of humans with all other beings and Nature. The comments presented and the techniques proposed by the author as adapted to our western way of life, consitute a practical guide to those intending to introduce themselves to the practice of shamanism.
Call backMay 16, 2007 1 out of 1 found this review helpful
While I truly appreciate the information and insight Harner has brought to the west, his writing is amazingly academic and cerebral. If you are seeking an experiential glimpse of shamanism or a more instructional text, this book is not it. To learn *why* shamanism, absorb every page.
The Original and Still the Best IntroductionApril 10, 2007 6 out of 8 found this review helpful
When Michael Harner's book, The Way of the Shaman, came out in the early 1980s, it was revolutionary. It was an easy-to-read book on a little-known subject, and it still is. Harner popularized the words "shaman" and "shamanism" and many people became interested in shamanism because of this book.
Reading this book won't teach you how to journey, but no book can do that. What it will do, unlike most of the books with "shamanism" in the title (many of them filled with nonsense) that have been published since, is clearly explain the basics of what shamanism really is and what shamans do. I always recommend it to beginners in my shamanism group as the best book to read before learning to journey.
While Harner's "core shamanism" doesn't seem to me to be quite as generic as he believes, presumably because he was deeply influenced by his own studies with the Jivaro, I still think his approach is the best.
After 25 years, The Way of the Shaman is still the best place for beginners to start. Even if you're not a beginner, it's a must-read for anyone interested in doing shamanic practices.
Common Aspects of Shamanic CulturesJanuary 27, 2007 7 out of 8 found this review helpful
Harner's composition is written with the lay person in mind. The book explains the many colorful aspects of Shamanic cultures in a concise and easy to read text. It is designed to bring the Shamanic experience to the forefront of everyday living, it opens our senses to the world around us, and it provides a world perspective that has been in existence for hundreds if not thousands of years. Harner asks us to stop and consider the existence of an unscene world; one that is within the grasp of anyone wishing to take the journey.
LOTS OF INFORMATIONJanuary 18, 2007 3 out of 4 found this review helpful
Great book for any one looking for the basics or a bit more. Well put together, though I could have appreciate more illustrations of drums mentioned.
