Question

In the Serer faith, saltigues (“saul-tee-gways”) step into a circle to publicly engage in this activity in the Xooy (“hoy”) ceremony. Opele chains can be used to perform this activity (20[1])quickly. During this activity, ivory or wood tappers are tapped on an opon tray to draw the attention of Eshu who (20[1])acts as a mediator. Babalawos dub palm nuts “open” or “closed” when (20[1])performing this activity’s “Ifá” form for their clients. (20[3])Various African (20[1])diaspora faiths accomplish this activity (20[1])by tossing (*) cowrie shells (10[3])and (10[2])interpreting (10[3])their (10[1])landing (10[1])positions. (10[6])Roman augurs (10[1])observed bird (10[1])omens (10[1])and examined animal entrails (10[2])to practice this activity. For 10 points, what activity (10[1])involved men communing with the gods to predict events to come? (10[1]) (10[5])■END■

Back to tossups

Buzzes

Summary