God of Justice: Ritual Healing and Social Justice in the Central Himalayas

by William S. Sax

God of Justice deals with ritual healing in the Central Himalayas of north India, focusing on the cult of Bhairav, a local deity associated with the lowest castes, who are frequently victims of social injustice. When they are exploited or abused they often turn to Bhairav for justice, beseeching him to afflict their oppressors with disease and misfortune. In order to bring their suffering to an end, the oppressors must make amends with their victims and worship Bhairav together with them. Much of the book focuses on the tension between the high moral value placed on family unity on the one hand, and the inevitable conflicts within it on the other. This highly readable book describes the author's own experiences in the field as well as ritual healing practices such as divination, sacrifice, and exorcism.

298 pages, Paperback

First published November 17, 2008

Reviews

[Nila Ish · Rating 5 out of 5]

William Sax's "God of Justice" delves into the fascinating world of Bhairava worship in the Central Himalayas. Unlike the dominant Hindu deities often associated with upper castes, Bhairava is seen as a protector of the downtrodden. Those who face social and economic exploitation, turn to Bhairava for intervention against injustice. Rituals associated with Bhairava often involve seeking his intervention to inflict misfortune or illness upon oppressors, pressuring them to mend their ways and offer amends.

Rituals serve as a form of healing for the victims of social injustice. By expressing their suffering and seeking Bhairava's intervention, individuals and communities find a sense of empowerment and a path towards restoring social balance. Sax highlights the tension between the cultural emphasis on family unity and the reality of internal conflicts within families, even among the marginalized communities. Bhairava rituals can be used to address these internal disputes, particularly when they involve abuse or exploitation.

Although Bhairava is a local deity specific to the Central Himalayas, his role as a champion of the disadvantaged resonates with broader themes of social justice. The book suggests that Bhairava worship offers a unique perspective on how marginalized communities navigate social structures and seek redress for injustices.

By offering an alternative source of power and social control, Bhairava worship subtly challenges the established social hierarchy. Overall, Sax's analysis of Bhairava paints a complex picture. This deity represents not just a source of vengeance but also a facilitator of healing, social justice, and a challenge to the existing power structures.