This volume serves as a comprehensive academic resource for both students of spirituality and scholars of world religions. Umbanda, a prominent Brazilian religion, emerges as the largest indigenous faith in the Americas, shaping numerous syncretic traditions such as Santeria, Obeah, Vodou, Candomble, and Spiritism. In
*The Book of Umbanda
*, David Barreto offers a scholarly examination of the religion's development, tracing its historical and anthropological origins from 19th-century spiritualist practices like séances and turning tables, to its deep connections with West African oracle systems and cults predating European contact with the Americas. Through a blend of ethnographic research and personal immersion in spiritualist centers in both Brazil and the UK, the author presents a nuanced study of Umbanda's philosophies, rituals, and theological frameworks. Barreto's insights, enriched by direct participation in these religious contexts, provide an authoritative and experiential understanding of the faith. This work outlines the full doctrinal scope of Umbanda while also offering an intricate analysis of its pantheon of deities and spiritual entities, making it an indispensable reference for those studying comparative religion. Moreover, the text provides detailed explanations of the practical and symbolic elements of Umbanda, including temple layouts, altar arrangements, and the religious use of objects such as herbs, stones, candles, and ritual offerings. These elements are explored not only for their ritual significance but also for their broader extraphysical and symbolic meanings, lending a deeper understanding of their role within the religious framework. Barreto also engages with the mediumistic practices integral to Umbanda, offering a clear and scholarly presentation of spiritual channeling. His treatment of this subject balances critical analysis with a neutral tone, making it accessible to both practitioners and academic observers. The mechanisms of mediumship and its role in Umbanda services are dissected with precision, providing both an in-depth theoretical perspective and practical guidance for mediums. Unique in its accessibility, the book translates key religious terms and concepts into English without losing their cultural significance. Barreto avoids exoticism and ensures that the terminology resonates with a non-Portuguese-speaking audience while maintaining fidelity to Umbanda's traditional meanings. This linguistic precision allows non-native practitioners and scholars to engage with the religion in a more profound and authentic way. In sum, The Book of Umbanda is a scholarly and insightful exploration of the religion's history, doctrines, and spiritual practices, offering a rigorous and engaging resource for both academic study and spiritual inquiry.
