What Is Indian Shamanism?
In Native American culture, the shaman acted as an intermediary between the physical and spirit worlds. Also known as a medicine man, the shaman was an important position in Indian culture.
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Identification
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Most shaman achieved their status after nearly escaping death, for example fighting off a wild animal or nearly being hit with lightning, according to Access Geneology.
Significance
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Many shaman employed steam baths or sweat lodges an experience that put them in a new hallucinatory state so they could speak with spirits.
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Function
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The role of the shaman differed from tribe to tribe. In some instances, he acted as a healer and in others he worked to control wandering spirits and lifted curses.
Types
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Some shaman practiced their craft by dancing and chanting, while others function by sucking the evil out of their patients, according to Access Geneology.
Potential
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While shamanism is still practiced today, it is relegated to Indians on reservations and people interested in New Age medicine.
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