The Religious System of the Amazulu (Limited Edition)

No. 343 of 1000 printed. 

The Religious System of the Amazulu by Henry Callaway is a seminal ethnographic work that delves into the spiritual and cultural beliefs of the Zulu people. Originally published in the late 19th century, this comprehensive study is based on a series of interviews conducted by Callaway with Zulu informants, presenting their responses in their own words. The book is structured to provide insights into various aspects of Zulu religion, including ancestor worship, divination practices, and concepts of creation.

In 1970, C. Struik of Cape Town released a limited facsimile reprint of this important work, replicating the original Springvale Mission Press edition. This edition was limited to 1,000 numbered copies, making it a valuable collector’s item. The reprint maintains the dual-language format, presenting English translations alongside the original Zulu text, thus preserving the authenticity and linguistic richness of the source material.

The 1970 edition spans 448 pages and includes black-and-white illustrations that enhance the reader’s understanding of the cultural context. The hardcover binding features black leatherette covers with silver lettering on the spine, and while some copies may show signs of wear or have incomplete dust jackets, the content remains a vital resource for scholars and enthusiasts of African studies.

Henry Callaway (1817–1890), a missionary and the first bishop of St. John’s in Kaffraria, South Africa, dedicated his life to understanding and documenting the beliefs of the Zulu people. His work is considered a cornerstone in the study of African religions and continues to be referenced in contemporary anthropological and theological research.