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Zuni Pueblo Ceremonial-style Fetish Jar, circa 1930s by Teddy Weahkee - C3640
Fetishism is the worship of material things as the abodes of spirits, or more strictly, the belief that the possession and worship of an article can procure the services of a spirit lodged within it. The Zuni strongly believe in fetishes. To them a fetish is always potent, always holy and it can aid them when in their possession.
When not in need of having a fetish in their possession, the Zuni nevertheless provides for it in a manner of respect. A pottery jar is provided for storage of a fetish and for providing proper care of it. Fetishes are ceremonially fed when not in use. Food from the table is sometimes used but sacred corn meal is most often given. In performing the rite of feeding, the food is placed in a dish or on a piece of paper, and laid beside the fetish or the jar in which the fetish is kept. The food is left for 30 minutes or less in which time it is supposed to nourish the spirit of the fetish, after which the food is buried or thrown into the river. It is never burned or just thrown away.
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