Who holds the power? Which religion is stronger? In Bless Me Ultima, a young boy's coming-of-age story, the protagonist struggles with the question of which God should be followed, worshiped and revered. The theme of power in religion is represented throughout Anaya's book in various ways and means such as Ultima, Mrs. Marez, the sign of the cross, and Antonio himself. Power is represented through Ultima and her religion of healing. Ultima is a wise old woman who knows how to use herbs and tonics to heal those brave enough to avail herself of her services. Because of her knowledge, most people respect Ultima and her powers very much. Ultima is a woman who is gentle in her ways, but full of power to take whatever action she deems necessary to take. An example of Ultima's healing power is when Antonio's uncle Lucas becomes deathly ill. Ultima knows where the source of the harm done to Lucas comes from and goes straight to confront Tenorio, the man responsible. In the confrontation with Tenorio and his companions, Ultima says to Tenorio: "I don't fear your threats Tenorio, you know it well, my powers were given to me by el hombre volador". In this quote from the book, Ultima refers to her power and uses it to her advantage. Much to his delight, Tenorio is shocked and afraid of what Ultima might do to his three daughters with her power. Ultima also teaches her religion to Antonio. When collecting plants with Ultima, Antonio discovers that each plant has a spirit. Before weeding them out, Antonio must explain why he will use each herb or root so that he understands and does not get angry. Through her knowledge of healing, Ultima uses the power she possesses to help others. The power of religion is not only represented through embodiment... middle of the card... ways express how power is represented through religion. , although religions may not all be the same. Overall, the main theme of Anaya's book is about the power struggle within different cultural and religious premises. Through his struggle, Antonio is able to realize that it is not necessary to make a choice between all religions, but that there is wisdom in understanding that each can have its place in his life. Works Cited Caminero-Santangelo, Marta. “Jason's Indiana: Mexican Americans and the Denial of Indigenous Ethnicity in Anaya's Bless Me, Ultima.” Criticism Winter 2004: 45- Academic Research Premier. Retrieved February 9, 2006 http://web27.epnet.com/citation.Kanoza, Theresa. “The Golden Carp and Moby Dick: the multiculturalism of Rodolfo Anaya”. Melus Summer 1999: 24- Premier Academic Research. Retrieved February 9, 2006 http://web27.epnet.com/citation.