This paper examines a Christian tradition defined by descent, but a descent that extends beyond family lineages to include relatedness with saints and sacred land. Through an ethnography of the Orthodox feast of St. George and the ritual use of olive oil from Palestinian villages, it frames discussion of indigeneity, land, and rootedness around the concept of descent. Putting Palestinian Orthodoxy in conversation with diverging theories of descent, the article argues against sequestering divine and human forms of relatedness in separate social domains. It suggests the concept of descent can be a powerful tool for integrating them when expanded to include all “forces that bring forth life”.

Respondent: Lisa Davis, Anthropology

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