Saberes de cura e práticas corporais: pajelança na feira da Manaus Moderna

Abstract

This study has sought to know the experience of a benzedor/puxador (faith healer) of indigenous origin in the context of the city of Manaus. The methodology used was The-matic Oral History. The instruments used for collecting data were: direct observation and semi structured interview with one faith healer that does the healing practices, ben-zeção/puxação, in the Feira da Manaus Moderna (Modern Manaus Fair). The discussion on the data collected approached the knowledges practiced by the faith healer according to healing (blessing) and religiosity aspects, ancestral knowledge, and puxação practices in a city context. The concluding analysis points to the necessity of knowing and valuing the knowledges and practices of the benzeção/puxação and their benefits to the well-being of those who seek such treatments in favor of their physical/mental/spiritual health, which are considered as alternative compared to traditional medicine developed in the West. Although the indigenous and cabocla pajelança has been persecuted through centuries of colonization, this healing practice persists and still makes its presence in Manaus, capital city of Amazonas. Keywords: Indigenous pajelança; Benzeção and religiosity; City.