The publication in question recounts a specific community’s engagement with faith, law, and tradition within the context of the Holiness churches of the Appalachian region. It explores the practice of serpent handling as a religious ritual and examines the lives of individuals who participate in these services, offering insights into their beliefs and motivations.
The work’s significance lies in its anthropological exploration of a marginalized religious group, providing a nuanced portrayal that moves beyond sensationalism. It contributes to a broader understanding of religious diversity within the United States and sheds light on the cultural and socioeconomic factors that shape religious practices. Its historical context includes the rise of Pentecostalism in the early 20th century and the enduring appeal of fundamentalist interpretations of scripture.
