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Meaning of SHAMANISM

Pronunciation:  'shâmu`nizum

WordNet Dictionary
 
 Definition: 
  1. [n]  an animistic religion of northern Asia having the belief that the mediation between the visible and the spirit worlds is effected by shamans
  2. [n]  any animistic religion similar to Asian shamanism (especially as practiced by certain Native American tribes)
 
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 Synonyms: Asian shamanism
 
 See Also: faith, religion, religious belief

 

 

Products Dictionary
 
 Definition: 

Shamanism
Romanian philosopher and history of religion scholar Mircea Eliade`s early study of shamanism continues to be a trusted source for scholarly studies of the spiritual practice. Eliade uses a three-pronged approach here, using anthropology, sociology, and psychology to interpret the role of the shaman, or the socially-recognized healer who falls into a trancelike state and is guided by otherworldly spirits to experience revelation or ecstasy. Eliade begins with a study of ancient practices of shamanism in Siberia and Central Asia and then broadens his study to South America and other continents.

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Webster's 1913 Dictionary
 
 Definition: 
\Sha"man*ism\, n.
The type of religion which once prevalied among all the
Ural-Altaic peoples (Tungusic, Mongol, and Turkish), and
which still survives in various parts of Northern Asia. The
Shaman, or wizard priest, deals with good as well as with
evil spirits, especially the good spirits of ancestors.
--Encyc. Brit.
 
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