Annotated bibliography Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 6

Annotated bibliography - Essay Example In this case, therefore, rituals can be discussed as a form of reality that influences the natural existence of human beings. In his work, McNamara (pp.222) indicates that rituals can basically be described as meaningless. He adds that, ritualists ought not to have ascribed meanings to the rituals prior to performance of the same. He quotes that, ‘†¦rituals are not primarily devices for communicating hidden meanings†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ (222). This work puts the view that all forms of ritual studies should not only endeavor to discuss the meanings of rituals, but discuss the contexts in which rituals can be understood. This includes how rituals can be performance, and how the rituals can be performed. He also emphasizes that rituals can always have meanings if the audience want them to have meanings. The work, however, cautions that persons should not misunderstand the fact that rituals may be termed as meaningless, but always try to find the most relevant meanings in the rituals. The work by McNally includes the concept of ritual as a form of survival tactic by the Native American persons. McNally (pp.197) indicates that rituals cannot be understood out of the context of the historical context of a people. This work includes the thoughts of the famous historian, Geertz who believes that, ‘†¦ritual begets the fuel that drives the ‘cultural system’ of religion ... (197). This is an interpretation of the fact that, through rituals, that the existence of humans find meanings as well as are motivated to exist in the world. McNally (pp.198), however, notes that rituals may portray varying meanings and cautions individuals from misinterpretation of the same. With this, he gives the example of Ojibwe community- a traditional community and the Protestant variations of the meanings of rituals in their religions. This work incorporates the study of ritual activities and their implications on the understanding of the truth on the