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Dinéjí Na'nitin

Navajo Traditional Teachings and History

by Robert S. McPherson

Paperback Price $26.95
Ebook Price $21.95
30-day ebook rental price $9.99

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"It is rare that an Anglo scholar could understand the in-depth meaning of the Navajo worldview and its implications. It is even rarer for him to interpret it in Western [narrative] form without losing meaning and integrity . . . Robert S. McPherson has done just that."
—Harry Walters, Former Director, Hatathli Museum at Diné College

"This book is highly recommended for readers interested in a knowledgeable and sensitive description of some of the basic aspects of traditional Navajo teachings, thought, and language and how the infringements of the dominant American culture in the past decades has undermined the application of those teachings in the lives of the contemporary Navajo people."
—Bruce Gjeltema, Utah Historical Quarterly

"[A]nother sensitive and acute study of the Navajo people by historian Robert McPherson. . . . [A] book that can easily be picked up by the general reader, who yet needs a gracious, obliging guide to an unfamiliar cultural landscape."

—Joseph C. Jastrzembski, Journal of Folklore Research

 

Traditional teachings derived from stories and practices passed through generations lie at the core of a well-balanced Navajo life. These teachings are based on a very different perspective of the physical and spiritual world than that found in general American culture. Dinéjí Na'nitin is an introduction to traditional Navajo teachings and history for a non-Navajo audience, providing a glimpse into this unfamiliar domain and illuminating the power and experience of the Navajo worldview.

Historian Robert McPherson discusses basic Navajo concepts such as divination, good and evil, prophecy, and metaphorical thought, as well as these topics' relevance in daily life, making these far-ranging ideas accessible to the contemporary reader. He also considers the toll of cultural loss on modern Navajo culture as many traditional values and institutions are confronted by those of dominant society. Using both historical and modern examples, he shows how cultural change has shifted established views and practices and illustrates the challenge younger generations face in maintaining the beliefs and customs their parents and grandparents have shared over generations.

This intimate look at Navajo values and customs will appeal not only to students and scholars of Native American studies, ethnic studies, and anthropology but to any reader interested in Navajo culture or changing traditional lifeways.

 

Robert S. McPherson is professor emeritus of history at Utah State University, Blanding Campus and has published widely on Navajo and Ute history and culture.

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Details

  • Paperback Price: $26.95
  • Paperback ISBN: 978-1-60732-216-0
  • Ebook Price: $21.95
  • 30-day ebook rental price: $9.99
  • EISBN: 978-1-60732-217-7
  • Publication Year: 2012
  • Pages: 220
  • Illustrations: 34 b&w photographs
  • Discount Type: Trade
  • Author: by Robert S. McPherson
  • ECommerce Code: 978-1-60732-216-0
  • Get Permissions: Get Permission

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