Religion and Ceremonies of the Lenape

The spiritual beliefs and ceremonial occasions of the Lenape Native American tribes are discussed at length in this illustrated investigation.

Published in 1921, this account of the Lenape benefits from the research of the author. He contacted various chieftains and descendants of the Lenape, many of whom were scattered across different locations, particularly in Kansas and Oklahoma. The author's enquiry spans the belief structure of the Lenape; an overarching God has many minor deities subordinate, and these are listed and discussed. The importance of spirits is analyzed: some act as guardians to mortals while others corrupt with evil intentions.

The photographs and illustrations depict the costumes and attire of the Lenape, plus a selection of objects significant to their ceremonies. The vision quests, notably induced by the consumption of the peyote cactus, are described and pictured. As with many Native American traditions, the natural world and the animal kingdom inspire many of the rituals: gathered groups would often dedicate their fervent prayers and songs to a given creature or aspect of nature. For the Lenape, the use of the drums during such gatherings was paramount: several illustrations of expertly carved drumsticks and drawn-out animal hides accompany the text.