Bullroarer - Research Articles

An in-depth exploration of the bullroarer complex, Eliade’s initiation model, and whether a global mystery cult solved the sapient paradox in the Neolithic.

Across Australia, West Africa, Greece, and Amazonia, the bullroarer marks initiation as literal spirit indwelling—ritual death, rebirth, and presence of the god or ancestor.

A global lexicon of bullroarer names by language and culture, with careful sourcing and notes on polysemy and secrecy.

An anthropological examination of the bullroarer, arguing its global distribution and consistent ritual functions point to cultural diffusion from a common prehistoric origin.