Beschreibung
Until 1994, the year South Africa experienced her first
democratic elections, the country was notorious for its
ruthless apartheid policy and its violent political climate.
By then, the antagonism between the recently unbanned black
political parties had reached its pathetic peak. Among those
who had to bear the impact of intimidation, violence and
murder were the Zulu Zionists. Being part of the African
Independent Churches, Zulu Zionists have always been
apolitical and against any form of violence. Yet, how were
they able to uphold their religious principals and ideals in
a time where being impartial meant to sympathise with the
political adversary?
During 22 months of fieldwork, the author observed how Zulu
Zionists in the township of Kwa Mashu, Durban, „walked the
tightrope“ in order to maintain their identity as
apolitical and peace loving christians.
„I consider it an original and extremely good account of
most difficult and indeed dangerous field research.“
…“… it is work of considerable distinction …“
John Middleton, Professor of Anthropology and Religious Studies
Emeritus, Yale University
„The thesis is an excellent account based upon able,
meticulous and very difficult field research and upon deep
scholarly knowledges in every chapter“ J P Kiernan
– Professor of Social Anthropology, University of
Natal, Durban / South Africa.
Matthias Mohr is a social Anthropologist. He was researcher
at the Department of Social Anthropolgy at the University of
Natal, Durban between 1989-93. Presently he works as
management consultant in Germany.