This book offers a unique perspective on the history and theology of the Shakers, a Christian sect that emerged in 18th-century America. Drawing on a range of primary sources and firsthand accounts, the authors provide a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and practices of this enigmatic group, including their emphasis on celibacy, communal living, and ecstatic worship. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.