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Encyclopedia of Religion entry forAntsThe Apalai Indians of South America drive away any demon of disease which may cling to their persons by allowing themselves to be stung by large ants. Certain Indians of Guiana, when a girl first shows signs of puberty, keep her for a month " in her hammock at the top of the hut," and expose her to the painful bites of large ants. This is said to be to strengthen her to bear the burden of motherhood. See J. G. Frazer, G.B. citations: Encyc. of Rel., Canney
article created 2006-04-12 , last updated 2006-04-12 |
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