Between Heaven and Earth

Felix Kupak (1918-2005), a hunter and carver, was a highly respected elder from Naujaat, Nunavut. He was a quiet man who was very much appreciated for his knowledge. He was a Roman Catholic and closely related to the famous Tirisikuluk. In this book, the result of a series of interviews, Kupak sheds light on many aspects of his life and shares his extensive knowledge on angakkuuniq (shamanism) and Christianity. He speaks of the open practice of angakkuuniq and life on the land before the creation of permanent settlements; the role of angakkuuniq in healing; the hardships of the past; experiences of life and death; and many other aspects of traditional and contemporary Inuit life. This book will contribute to a better understanding of Inuit qaujimajatuqangit as it took shape when Inuit converted to Christianity, and will shed light on the preservation and transformation of Inuit cultural identity and traditions during this time.