shamanism

Possibly the oldest world religion, originating among the Tungus peoples of Siberia over 8,000 years ago and spreading into China and Southeast Asia and across into Russia and into North and Central America via the land bridge that then existed between Siberia and Alaska. The core belief is in two worlds, the spiritual and the material.

Shamans, or priests of shamanism, are able to be possessed by spirits and they can then be called upon for help in curing illness, remedying ill fortune, influencing the weather or the availability of game, foretelling the future, and so on. Shamans are usually associated with the ability to turn into animals, of which the bear is the most revered.

Shamanism is still practised in China, Japan, Siberia, and in many areas of North and Central America. It has recently undergone a revival of interest, especially in the West, where its links with nature have struck a chord with many seeking a more ecological spirituality and world view.

Shamans usually become aware of their abilities during childhood or puberty, sometimes as a result of severe illness; subsequently they may have to abstain from certain foods, activities, and social roles. To commune with the spiritual world, the shaman enters a state of trance, usually by means of a ritual. In some societies shamans must be male, in others female shamans are common.