Vodun

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Tourists visiting Ouidah, a coastal city in Bénin, often explore notable Vodún sites like the Python Temple and King Kpasse's sacred forest. However, lesser-known locations, including the palace of the supreme chief of Vodún, are gaining traction as adventurous travelers seek deeper experiences. Timothy R. Landry investigates the dynamics between local Vodún priests and spiritual seekers, some of whom pursue initiation into the religion. He argues that the negotiation of confidential, sacred knowledge between priests and tourists enhances its value; the greater the secrecy surrounding Vodún practices, the more authentic and sought-after the knowledge becomes. As both an anthropologist and initiate, Landry draws from his extensive participation in Vodún ceremonies and rituals. He explores themes such as the role of money, the embodiment of deities, and the complexities of cultural adaptation within a transnational context. Additionally, he addresses the ethical implications of cultural production and consumption by both local and international actors. By examining the influences of racialization, power, and colonial legacies on the transmission of secret knowledge, Landry reveals how secrecy paradoxically plays a crucial role in Vodún's global expansion.