Fetichism?, e.g. Aftrican-style Animism/spiritism Options

I wondered what your thoughts or experiences are on fetichism [Note the spelling I'm using, to differentiate from er- stockings & suspenders fetishism etc!]

I wondered because I've obtained a few "Fetiches" [Sacred figures] of certain tribal spirits of another culture, which certainly seem to be "charged" with power. Also, when I give them their recommended offerings, [e.g. red wine which one of them traditionally likes] - the substances left at the figures' feet soon seem to be changed, as if the sweetness and alcohol is "sucked out" of them. A taste test shows they're definitely different after being offered. This is not my imagination, I've repeatedly tested this alongside standard bottles of the same stuff.
Somewhat eerie maybe! But to me, it would indicate the spirits are there and apparrently accepting the gifts.

Any comments or experiences yourselves?

This post has been edited by redbreast: May 3 2007, 12:44 PM

I always thought that the composition of wine changed once it was exposed to air for a time. I know when you cook with it that the alcohol evaporates. I think this may be the same thing you are experiencing with your fetiches. I know that I have read that spirits like water and they drink it, but if you leave water out, of course it is going to evaporate and if you leave food outside at night for spirits--well, I think wild/domestic animals may be the real ones eating the food. A lot of the African fetiches and altar figures are made of wood or clay and those will naturally absorb liquids.

Then again, I was wondering how the fetiches would feel about you sampling their offerings anyway? I never touch anything after I have left it as an offering--but that's me. The particular spirit of the fetich may not be the warm, fuzzy, sharing type. I would not partake of a left offering unless I knew who/what I was dealing with--kind of like sticking your fork in a guest's plate of food after you serve it to them?

I think that offerings/sacrifices are necessary at times, but I also think about the whys and the symbolism/meaning of such practices.

But, this is all just my opinion on the subject.