Abstract
The supernatural force of arutam is believed by the Achuar (Shiwiar) Jivaro to confer many special abilities to those individuals possessing it (particularly the ability to headhunt successfully). This chapter describes the various benefits that individuals with arutam receive. It also documents the ritual that initiates undergo in an effort to obtain this supernatural force. This work also analyzes the effects that arutam has on individuals along with its functions in society. Finally, the relationship between supernatural forces such as arutam, positions of military leadership, and the development of ranked societies will be addressed.
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CHACON, R.J. (2007). Seeking the Headhunter’s Power. In: CHACON, R.J., Dye, D.H. (eds) The Taking and Displaying of Human Body Parts as Trophies by Amerindians. INTERDISCIPLINARY CONTRIBUTIONS TO ARCHAEOLOGY. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-48303-0_20
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-48303-0_20
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