Sami shamanism and Siberian shamanism share many common features, but they also have distinct differences that reflect their unique cultural and geographical contexts. This article takes a closer look at the similarities and differences between these two shamanic traditions.
Similarities
Cosmology
Both Sami and Siberian shamanism share a tripartite cosmology, in which the universe is divided into an upper world (heaven), a middle world (earth), and a lower world (the underworld). This structure is fundamental to the shaman's journeys and interactions with the spirit worlds.
The role of the shaman
In both traditions, the shaman acts as an intermediary between people and the spirit world. They are responsible for healing, divination, and maintaining the balance between humans and nature.
Trance and spirit journeys
Both Sami noaidis and Siberian shamans use trance to undertake spirit journeys. These journeys are central to communicating with spirits, obtaining knowledge, and performing healing.
Use of the drum
The drum is a central tool in both Sami and Siberian shamanism. It is used to induce trance and to guide the shaman on spirit journeys. In Sami tradition, the drum is called a "rune drum" (goavddis), while in Siberia the name varies depending on the specific ethnic group.
Helpers and spirit animals
Both traditions recognise the importance of spiritual helpers and spirit animals. These beings assist the shaman during spirit journeys and in various rituals.
The significance of nature
Both Sami and Siberian shamanism place great emphasis on nature and its forces. Nature spirits play an important role in both traditions, and respect for nature is a central part of their worldview.
Initiation and calling
In both Sami and Siberian tradition, shamans are often "called" to their vocation through visions, dreams, or illness. The initiation process can be intense and challenging in both cultures.
Differences
Geographical context
Sami shamanism is primarily connected to Sápmi (the Sami homeland), which extends across parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. Siberian shamanism covers a much larger geographical area and includes many different ethnic groups with varied practices.
Cultural influence
Sami shamanism has been influenced by Norse religion and later Christianity, which has led to syncretic elements in its practice. Siberian shamanism, for its part, has been influenced by Buddhism, especially in southern regions, as well as Russian Orthodox Christianity.
The gender of the shaman
In Sami tradition, both men and women could be noaidis. In some Siberian traditions there were stricter gender roles, where certain groups accepted only male shamans, while others had specific roles for female shamans.
Ritual attire
Siberian shamans are known for their elaborate costumes, often decorated with symbols, feathers, and metal objects representing spiritual powers. Sami noaidis generally had less ornate attire, although they could wear special clothing or objects during rituals.
Political and social structure
In many Siberian societies, the shaman had a formal political and social role in addition to the spiritual one. In Sami culture, the noaidi's role was primarily spiritual and medical, although they could have considerable influence in society.
Survival and continuity
Sami shamanism was strongly suppressed during the Christianisation and colonisation of Sápmi, which led to much knowledge being lost. Siberian shamanism, although it also faced opposition, has in some regions had a stronger continuity and revitalisation in modern times.
Linguistic context
Sami shamanism is connected to the Sami languages, which belong to the Uralic language family. Siberian shamanism spans several language families, including Uralic, Altaic, and Paleosiberian languages, which is reflected in the variation of terms and concepts.
Sami and Siberian shamanism share many fundamental principles and practices, reflecting their common Arctic and subarctic roots. Both traditions emphasise the shaman's role as an intermediary between people and the spirit world, the use of trance and spirit journeys, and a deep respect for nature.
The differences between them are largely due to their unique geographical, historical, and cultural contexts. Sami shamanism has been more geographically concentrated and has experienced stronger influence from European cultures and religions. Siberian shamanism, on the other hand, encompasses a broader range of practices across a larger area and has preserved some aspects of its tradition to a greater degree.
Both traditions face challenges in modern times, including the loss of traditional knowledge and pressure from dominant cultures. At the same time, both are experiencing a form of revitalisation, both within their original communities and as inspiration for modern spiritual movements.
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