First published in 1951, The Malay Magician employs historical and comparative data to unravel the different elements – pagan, Hindu and Muslim – in a complex system of Malay magic, as it exists in the Federation of Malay in general and more specifically as it exists in the Malay States of Kelantan, Perak, Pahang, Selangor and Negri Sembilan. Tied up with the concept of magic is the Malay magician, whose many functions and roles in the society are discussed in detail. This book will be of interest to students of anthropology, sociology, history and cultural studies.
Preface 1. Introduction 2. The primitive magician 3. Towards animism 4. Primitive gods, spirits and ghosts 5. Hindu influences 6. The ritual of the rice field 7. The shaman’s séance 8. Sacrifice 9. Magician and Sufi 10. Muslim magic 11. Magic in daily life Appendices
Biography
R. O. Winstedt
