Cleverman

This article is about the cultural practice of Aboriginal spiritual healers in Australia. For the TV series based on this concept, see Cleverman (TV series).
Rock painting of a mimih spirit in Kakadu National Park.
Rock painting of Mimih spirits, often associated with clevermen, in Kakadu National Park

A cleverman is a traditional healer and keeper of culture in many Aboriginal cultures of Australia.[1] The roles, terms for, and abilities of a cleverman vary between different Aboriginal nations. Some clevermen heal bodily injuries and illnesses, while others heal spiritual ailments. They heal using plants, songs, and spiritual knowledge. Exceptionally powerful clevermen are believed to have magical powers and may heal both physical and spiritual ailments. Some sources also refer to clevermen having the ability to kill using magic, although this may be illegal within the culture or a separate form of harmful 'sorcery' from that used by cleverman healers. Clevermen also serve as cultural keepers and are experts in stories and spiritual beliefs. They have a strong understanding of sacred places and lore (which includes cultural heritage, laws, spiritual beliefs, behaviours, and rituals) and a deep connection to the Dreaming. Clevermen may be men or women, depending on the culture.[2]

Older clevermen choose a younger community member to take their place as a cleverman, teach them the necessary skills over many years, and conduct initiation ceremonies which are often kept secret. Clevermen are deeply respected members of Aboriginal communities.

A cleverman's role bears some similarities to overseas traditional roles commonly referred to as shamans, witch-doctors, medicine men, and other practitioners of cultural-based healing and spirituality. For this reason, some sources also refer to clevermen by these names.

Upon European colonisation of Aboriginal lands the traditions of clevermen were suppressed, especially by Christian missionaries. However, the practices of clevermen continue into the present day.[3]

  1. ^ Muir, Aunty Fay; Lawson, Sue (2018). Nganga: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Words and Phrases. Newtown, NSW: Black Dog Books. ISBN 9781921977015.
  2. ^ "A Clever People: Indigenous healing traditions and Australian mental health futures" (PDF). Short Thesis ANU (October 2008). 2008.
  3. ^ Cowan, James (1985). "Wild Stones: Spiritual Discipline and Psychic Power among Aboriginal Clever Men" (PDF). Studies in Comparative Religion. 17 (1 & 2, Winter–Spring 1985).