In Dark Symbols; Obscure Signs; Riggins R. Earl Jr. investigates how slave owners intentionally manipulated Christianity as they passed it on to slaves and demonstrates how slaves successfully challenged that distorted interpretation. Analyzing slaves’ response to Christianity as expressed in testimonies; songs; stories; and sermons; Earl reveals the conversion experience as the initial step toward an autonomy that defied white control. Contrary to what their white owners expected or desired; enslaved African Americans found in Christianity a life-affirming identity and strong sense of community.Slave owners believed Christianity would instill docility and obedience; but the slaves discovered in the Bible a different message; sharing among themselves the “dark symbols and obscure signs†that escaped the notice of their captors. Finding a sense of liberation rather than submission in their conversion experience; slaves discovered their own self-worth and their values as children of God.Originally published in 1993; Dark Symbols; Obscure Signs traces the legacy of slaves’ embrace of Christianity both during and after the slavery era. In a new introduction; the author places the book within the context of contemporary scholarship on the roots of the African American cultural experience. He argues that any interpretation of this experience must begin with a foundational study of the theological and ethical constructs that have shaped the way blacks understand themselves in relationship to God; their oppressors; and each other.The Author: Riggins R. Earl Jr. teaches at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta.
#543881 in Books Sasquatch Books 2007-04-10 2007-04-10Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.47 x .60 x 5.51l; .78 #File Name: 1570615225304 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. David Thompson in Western North America by Jack NisbetBy Ginny MapesSources of the River; 2nd Edition: Tracking David Thompson Across Western North America by an award-winning author; Jack Nisbet is an exciting; delightful read you will not want to put down once started. It is truly a great book about David Thompson in the Pacific Northwest during the 1800s by a Pacific Northwest writer.Step back in time and experience traveling with young David as he learns to talk with the Indians; grasps the trapping trade; suffers with a broken leg; keeps company records; and masters the art of map making. From the Hudson's Bay Company to NW Co. of Merchants from Canada; Jack Nisbet presents the facts in a magical way. Nesbit has a way with words painting a picture--almost poetic in style. A Chronology at the back of the book shows dates and events from 1607 to1916 so the reader can see just how David Thompson's life fits into the larger picture. The are Further Reading suggestions. Chapter Notes are extensive. There is also an Index. A must-have book for those who love true adventure stories and the history buff.Visit wwwjacknisbet.com to learn about: Upcoming Events; About The Author; and to view a video as he speaks about his research and writing for The Collector; another fine book."In historic times the falls marked a summer fishing place; when David Thompson arrived here in the early 1800s; he found a large village of Colville Indians drying salmon in long cedar sheds. Succeeding traders beat down a portage trail for their cones and fur packs; and built a small fort on a bluff above the river. White missionaries soon followed with Bibles and primers; and prospectors rushed in to grub for ore around every little cliff and outwash. Turn-of-the century homesteaders plowed and planted; froze and flooded; dried out and blew out and burned out; and some still hung on."0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Excellent excellent excellentBy R. SchwickertFor those interested in adventure of the likes of Lewis and Clark; especially those who live in the Northwest; this is a fascinating book about a fascinating individual. His ingenuity; tenacity and ability to endure unimaginable hardships; all in a day at work; impresses me. This book is a real winner.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. It was great.By Cindy IngramDid not put it down. It was great.
