Shaman

The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid.
Hebrews 13:6

Shuar (Jivaro) witchdoctor

transformed from enemy to friend through prayer.

Ecuador SA, 1953

photo by Bill Gibson

The shaman, or witchdoctor was greatly respected, feared and obeyed. Acting as the main leaders and focus of local conflicts, shamans were believed to both cure and kill through magical means.

It was very dangerous to have a shaman for an enemy, especially in the early days when heads were still being taken, and killing raids were not uncommon. Even as late as1980, group conflicts between local shamans still erupted into full scale feuds with loss of life.