SHAMANISM IS NOT A RELIGION

Mon, 31 May 2010 18:11:15 +0100

Shamanism Is Not A Religion

Norman W Wilson, PhD

Predating all organized religions, shamanism is, unto itself, not a religion. Because shamans adhere to a belief that there is a direct connection between healing and the spiritual world it easy to equate shamanism as a religion.

Shaman and shamanka (the female counterpart) act as an intermediary between the natural world and the spiritual world. Despite some claims shamanism is not a cult. Admittedly, some have linked themselves in a cult-like fashion to some of the fundamental shamanistic practices. It appears the interest here is the use of hallucinogenic drugs. It's doubtful if their use actually brings about an understanding of reality or the use of their energy to heal someone.

A shaman communes with the spiritual world for several reasons. Among these, the primary one, is to heal a sick soul. Others include the reading of the future, asking for success in specific endeavors, or to function as psychopomp. Whatever it is that is to be accomplished, the shaman connects with the axis mundi to create a special relationship with the Spirits and in some instances, actually gaining control over them. Despite rumors and myth, generally speaking, a practitioner of shamanism is not involved in bringing about harm or 'evil' to someone.

Shamanism is not a specific set of beliefs that are inculcated in an organized uniform system throughout the world. This does not mean there are not similarities. The primary similarity being a recognition of a spiritual world and the existence of spirits. Specific ceremonies, chants, and training are not held on a universal plane.

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SHAMAN AS HEALER

Mon, 31 May 2010 18:11:50 +0100

Shaman as Healer

Norman W Wilson, PhD

The word shaman has been brought into common language from Siberia. Even there, the connotation is that of healer. The shaman's tasks might include praying for a good crop, conducting special occasion ceremonies, reading the future, or interpreting past events. Healing is probably the most important jobs of a shaman.

In his medicine bag, the shaman has a vast knowledge of natural herbs and other plants that hold healing qualities. These he may make into a tea, a poultice, an ointment, or burn as an incense. He may add one or more of the vegetative material to a small fire and smudge the person who needs to be healed.

As healer, the shaman attempts to restore the individual's personal power. The old adage of mind over matter certainly applies to what the shaman does. Implied here, of course, is the notion that the body can heal itself. Michael Harner in his book, The Way of the Shaman, tells us that shamanism is an ancient methodological system of mind-body healing. Modern science provides numerous examples of the mind healing the body.

If the nature of the person's illness is serious enough the shaman may go into an altered state of consciousness. In the trance state the shaman works to restore the patient's personal power. He does this by direct communication with the Spirit World. In this state, he hears, sees and feels the presence of other entities. It is within this framework that he asks for help to heal his patient.