Not
each person risked to contact with mighty spirits, but only some, having secret forces and
knowledges did that. Such people were named Shamans in Siberia. The word “Shaman” on
one of the ancient siberian languages means " afflicted, furious ". It is not by
chance. Shamans knocked at the tambourine collecting the spirits around themselves and
communicated with them during the dance. They did it so furiously, that brought up itself
to the half-unconscious condition.
Shamans were not deceivers, they believed in the especial talent. And really they
could make the many things. They were skilful doctors, knew useful properties of plants,
prepared medical extracts. Some Shamans managed of hypnosis and inspired to the people a
faith in own forces, curing unhappy ones.
Shamans in Siberia were the first musicians. The Shaman dance was the whole
performance. They dressed very unusually. The Shaman with their dress became similar to an
animal or a bird, his mythical ancestors. In dance he imitated voices of animals and their
habitudes. Various amulets were sewed on his cloak . Each Shaman had the magic subjects,
which helped to contact with spirits.
The people believed that the mighty Shaman could not only speak with spirits, but
if necessary he could to fight with them. Therefore in many rituals Shamans used the
battle bows, spears, sabers, lashes.
Shamans played in the ancient society the extremely important role. Any large work
did not begin without their approval. They predicted the weather, specified the best place
for hunting, helped to bear children, arranged funeral, leaded holidays and the spirits
offering.
Shamanism is one of the most ancient religious system. In Siberia it was widespread
everywhere and existed up to the 20-th century and many peoples use it up to now. The
American Indians used Shamanism too. |
Woman-Shaman from Altai making the ritual
(1928 year).
Hakass Shaman ( 1930 year).
Shaman from Altai, making the ritual near the
nomad’s tent (yurta). (1929 year). |
