Sunday, September 30, 2007

Definition of the word 'Manggagaway'

"Manggagaway" is a tagalog word for "Babaylan", "Manggagamot", "Shaman". The manggagaway or babaylan is a priest/priestess of the indigenous tradition which existed before the onset of European colonialism in the Philippines. Mostly females, the babaylan functions as a healer, seer, adviser, medium, divine mediator, and a highly-respected spiritual leader of the community.

Brief History & Description

Manggagaway is an e-magazine dedicated to ecospirituality (nature-based spirituality) and higher creativity made by Filipinos for Filipinos. Founded on December 2003, Manggagaway showcased more than 60 articles, aided as a bridged to many kindred spirits and groups, and served as a venue for friendship, learning, and guidance. Brought to fruition by freelance volunteers, it is truly an endeavor that results from genuine dedication and hard work. It is an advocate of the peaceful co-existence of disparate beliefs merged at the core by a genuine desire to achieve a higher level of spiritual consciousness and mutual peace.