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Published on: August 5, 2020
Bereavement rituals in the Muscogee Creek tribe
Andrea C Walker1, David E Balk
1Oral Roberts University, Department of Behavioral Sciences, 7777 South Lewis, Tulsa, OK 74171, USA. awalker@oru.edu
Death Studies
|September 14, 2007
Summary
Bereavement rituals among the Muscogee Creek tribe involve specific practices like wake services and unique burial customs. These traditions reflect deep cultural values and community cohesion during mourning.
Area of Science:
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Indigenous Studies
Background:
- Bereavement rituals are culturally significant practices that provide structure and support during times of loss.
- Understanding Indigenous traditions is crucial for appreciating diverse cultural expressions of grief and remembrance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore and document bereavement rituals practiced by the Muscogee Creek tribe.
- To identify common rituals and understand the cultural values underpinning them.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative, collective case study approach was employed.
- Data were collected through interviews with 27 adult members of the Muscogee Creek tribe.
Main Results:
- Consensus was found on several key bereavement rituals, including wake services, continuous vigil over the body, inclusion of personal items in the casket, hand-dug graves, individual grave covering with a 'farewell handshake,' grave housing, a 4-day waiting period before burial, purification practices, and a socialized mourning period.
- Rituals are deeply connected to cultural values such as family, community, religion, the significance of the number 4, traditional medicine, and specific meanings attributed to death.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights the distinct and cohesive nature of Muscogee Creek bereavement rituals.
- These rituals serve as vital expressions of cultural identity, community support, and spiritual beliefs in the face of death.
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