Faith-based Practices Associated With Shrines and Their Use By Women For Solution of Their Socio-medical Problems

Abstract

This study explores the socio-medical problems of the women and the spiritual practices that they perfonn for solution of these problems. The study explains the nature of their problems and they way the practices at the shrine serve as a mode of healing for them. Their social problems which are a contributing cause or primary cause of their medical problems have been explored. In this study Anthropological qualitative method was used for collection of the data. The qualitative methods such as purposive sampling, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and case study methods were frequently employed. The research was done in the Shrine Mohra Sharif in MUlTee which is a center of spiritual healing. The problems faced by women were explored. The problems such as serious medical condition like cancer, heart problems, and arthritis are common among the women who visit the shrine. The social issues such as the lower statuses of women and the problems caused by this are contributing causes of the problems. The sluines provide the women with a opportunity to get relief tlu'ough spirituality.