...a learned, thoroughly researched thesis, yet, with a practical intention and message. ... As a researcher the author has lived for many years among the Zaramo people, with a dedicated intention to identify with their life, and this alone has made it possible to observe and interpret their symbolic life to the extent found here. (Bengt Sundkler in his foreword to the second edition.)
Contents: I. Approach to Study of Ritual and Symbol -- 1. The problem -- 2. Ritual and symbol -- 3. Approach -- II. Society in Transition -- 1. Area and population -- 2. Religious and cultural identification -- 3. Social organization in transition - historical perspective -- 4. Individual and society -- 5. Society in conflict -- 6. Attitudes and values: quantitative analysis -- III. Ritual in Transition -- 7. Ritual expressions of Mwambo Zaramo -- 8. Ritual expression of life pattern -- 9. Spirit concepts and practices – IV. Organism and symbol -- 10. Symbolic view of life of Mwambao Zaramo -- 11. Health and illness in body organism -- V. Final Analysis -- 12. Ritual approach to life and modern development