Sacred Language of the Abakuá

More about the book

The book explores the significance of Abakuá societies formed by enslaved Africans in Cuba, detailing their rituals that blend African heritage with local culture. Lydia Cabrera's phrasebook, now translated into English, serves as a vital resource for understanding the Abakuá's unique identity and contributions to Cuban culture, including rumba music. The text includes thorough commentaries linking phrases to cultural practices, alongside illustrations and a new introduction. It aims to preserve Cabrera's insights while expanding access to this important aspect of African diaspora studies.