Religion and the African American Conjuring Tradition with Dr. Yvonne Chireau

In this episode of Chasing Leviathan, PJ and Dr. Yvonne Chireau discuss religion, magic, and syncretism in the context of the spiritualities that arose among enslaved Africans in the US and Caribbean. Dr. Chireau also explores the role that the Conjuring tradition had in shaping the African American experience, as well as our assumptions about the differences between "magic" and "religion."

For a deep dive into Dr. Yvonne Chireau's work, check out her book: Black Magic: Religion and the African American Conjuring Tradition 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/0520249887/

Check out our blog on www.candidgoatproductions.com Who thinks that they can subdue Leviathan? Strength resides in its neck; dismay goes before it. When it rises up, the mighty are terrified. Nothing on earth is its equal. It is without fear. It looks down on all who are haughty; it is king over all who are proud. 

These words inspired PJ Wehry to create Chasing Leviathan. Chasing Leviathan was born out of two ideals: that truth is worth pursuing but will never be subjugated, and the discipline of listening is one of the most important habits anyone can develop. 

Every episode is a dialogue, a journey into the depths of a meaningful question explored through the lens of personal experience or professional expertise.