The power of water: spirits and knowledge in West Java

This contribution explores a specific form of knowledge used by pilgrim leader on the island Java which constitutes basis his religious legitimacy and political agency. By locating source in personal relationships with ancient kings Pajajaran, creates position from where he can criticise contemporary leadership Indonesia. He builds authority for this direct communication ancestors, demonstrating ability to infuse various objects material forms powers obscure distinction between past present. The leader’s facilitates access power water pilgrims ways. Relationships ancestors are established validated through nocturnal ‘possessions’ detailed about spiritual landscape Sancang, including powerful springs Sumur Tujuh. ethnography is based several pilgrimages West Java, but especially focuses one occasion when played crucial role blurring demarcation living dead, humans spirits.