🎇 SHAMANISM AROUND THE WORLD 🎇

WRITTEN BY ZACH CHAMP

WHAT IS SHAMANISM?

Shamanism is one of the world’s most ancient spiritual traditions. Found in cultures all over the world, the tradition of the Shaman is enchanting and mysterious. From the Native American medicine man to the voodoo sorceress to the traditional healers and diviners of Siberia, Shamanism is a human heritage deeply rooted in our most ancient beliefs and practices.

There are traits common to all Shamanistic practices, and the most important characteristic perhaps is the theme of Initiation. The Shaman is an individual who holds a special place within their societies. As a result, the base of their knowledge in skills such as herbal medicine, divination, rituals, understanding of the ecstatic state of consciousness, interacting with the spirits, and so on was reserved for only chosen individuals. Those who wished to become Shamans had to be carefully vetted, challenged, and gradually introduced within Shamanic Society.

Shamans were well respected and revered within their communities. They would help community members with a variety of problems. In modern terms, the Shaman would be like a doctor, counselor, pastor, and a lawyer all in one. Shamans would be responsible for conducting rituals and ceremonies on important holidays and occasions in order…