SHAMANISM: WHAT IS AND WHAT DOES A SHAMAN DO?

Shamanism is a religious movement or technique that revolves around a central figure: the shaman. This is different from religions around a god or gods such as Christianity, Hinduism or Islam. Because that shaman is a tangible and living person. That shaman is thought to have special powers that can help individuals and communities. For example, by acting as a medicine man. From being a healer to being able to communicate with the dead and other entities and worlds, this is what a shaman does all together.

The meaning of shamanism

The origins of shamanism can be found in cultures with hunters and gatherers. Shamanism is all about using invisible forces. It involves connecting with spirits and entities in order to enter higher realms, trance or ecstasy. Shamans might be able to get those invisible forces to our visible world. But their souls could also leave their bodies, after which they are able to travel off to other worlds.

Where does shamanism occur?

Shamanism can be seen in many cultures and places. Native American tribes like the Ojibwe relied on the leadership of a shaman, for example. They made contact with spirits and led ceremonies with tobacco, ceremonial smokes and making sacrifices. In Asia, shamans have (had) a place in countries like China, the Philippines and Indonesia. And of course we see them in all kinds of cultures around the Amazon. Like in Peru where you can still quite easily attend Ayahuasca ceremonies and other ritual sessions to heal yourself. But shamans also roamed closer to home. Before Christianity, it was the mainly female shamanic Spákona or Völva who were a central figure in northern European cultures. And you are probably familiar with the earlier druids who were a kind of magical priests in the time of the Celts.

Modern shamanic peoples

Many peoples with shamanic leaders and traditions have already died out or abandoned their beliefs. Whether forced or not by Christian rulers, for instance. Yet in some countries and regions, we still see a few peoples who actively lean on a shaman. In Pakistan's Hunza region, for instance. There are also still isolated tribes practising shamanism.

Who is a shaman and what does one do?

The word shaman is derived from 'saman', from which 'sa' literally means 'to know'. A shaman is therefore a wise figure. By the way, shamanism is definitely not a male thing, as women and other genders are shamans too. You often see that the shaman is also the chief of a community. In addition, the person is often the local medicine man or herbalist and often has priest-like duties. And don't be surprised if a shaman also claims to have divination powers.

A shaman has the noble task of often being high, because that is obviously the shortest route to a trance state. In those higher realms, they can then chase away spirits and solve other problems that torment individuals or villages.

Ceremonies with shamans

The shaman has an important role in traditional ceremonies, mainly because of his ability to work with invisible forces and energies. Transition rites, for instance, but also during ceremonies with psychedelics. As you probably know, psychedelic experiences can seem to put you in touch with your ancestors, spirits, aliens or mysterious counsellors. The shaman can sense their energies and direct them in the right direction while you are tripping on, say,Ayahuasca, kambo, cacao, Yopo, or rapé.

Dutch shamans: do they really exist?

You can find shamans in our country too, although these are often more guru-like individuals who have given themselves that title. Consequently, you often see that they are mainly after money and status, and less about really helping people with effective solutions. They often use difficult words and self-devised terms to appear wise. So be critical when you encounter a Dutch shaman, and especially regarding his claims. Supporting you on a personal growth journey should work, but curing illnesses is better left to doctors.