The Prophet and the Spring: The Legend of Alexander Bedward" is a biographical and historical story that delves into the life and impact of Alexander Bedward, a central figure in early 20th-century Jamaican history. The book explores Bedward's emergence as a "prophet" within the Revivalism movement and his influence on the founding of Bedwardism.
The narrative details Bedward's establishment of the August Town community and the central role played by the "healing spring," which became a pilgrimage site for his followers. The book covers Bedward's predictions and his subsequent conflict with the colonial government, culminating in his institutionalisation at the Kingston Lunatic Asylum.
Key themes of the book include spiritual authority, colonial resistance, the intersection of religion and politics, and the enduring legacy of Bedward's followers. It offers a unique window into Jamaican cultural and religious history, providing context for the socio-political dynamics of the post-emancipation era.