I used the term ‘neo-shamanism’ in my last blog post. I think the term is worthy of its own post for description, clarification and discussion. I was feeling lazy and pulled up the Wikipedia definition of neo-shamanism, and I’ve left the notations as links should you want to explore further.
“Neoshamanism refers to new forms of shamanism. It usually means shamanism practiced by Western people as a type of New Age spirituality, without a connection to traditional shamanic societies.[1] It is sometimes also used for modern shamanic rituals and practices which, although they have some connection to the traditional societies in which they originated, have been adapted somehow to modern circumstances. This can include "shamanic" rituals performed as an exhibition, either on stage or for shamanic tourism,[2][1] as well as modern derivations of traditional systems that incorporate new technology and worldviews.[3]”
Dictionary.com defines the term shamanism as:
noun. (especially among certain tribal peoples) a person who acts as intermediary between the natural and supernatural worlds, using magic to cure illness, foretell the future, control spiritual forces, etc.
Is there any difference at all between shamanism and neo-shamanism? Is neo-shamanism just the ‘new’ (neo) version of traditional shamanism? There are indeed significant differences, and understanding these differences is critical if you have dabbled in the practices of neo-shamanism or are interested in the practice.
Throughout tribal cultures and their histories, shamans were chosen by the spirits as intermediaries between the community and the supernatural. These people showed remarkable connection to the spirits from a very early age. They were tested and shown to be worthy to both the spirits and the community. Shamans do not declare themselves shamans – the spirits and elders declare them so, even if that person does not willingly choose that commission.
At some point in the person’s young life, they are initiated formally and publicly into the role of shaman. Historically, this initiation was very often not pretty. It involves confrontation of deep fear, pain (physical and mental) and even aggression. Each method of initiation is specific to the indigenous community, and methods can vary widely between belief systems. Once initiated (and there can be subsequent initiations for the shaman), the shaman’s life is dedicated to the wellbeing and very survival of their community.
Neo-shamanism is vastly different in both its meaning and application. Today, anyone can declare themselves a neo-shamanic practitioner, although they typically embrace (mistakenly) the term shaman instead. Practitioners describe a feeling of being ‘called’ to the practice, but they endure no initiation nor apply any discipline to achieve their self-appointed status. While traditional shamans place strong emphasis on the ideas of both malevolence and chaos in their interactions with the spirits, neo-shamans tend to emphasize love and compassion over negativity (see article). Traditional shamans are initiated into and trained within a specific belief system. This system has lineage and history, rules, structure, and a community of fellow believers. The shaman sees the worlds of the spirits as the primary reality, while neo-shamans see our reality as primary and all else as supernatural.
In summary, neo-shamans are new age practitioners without cultural authority or responsibility. Is this all bad? Mostly not (but it sure sounds bad). I’m not blanket-dissing on neo-shamanic practices. They are the gateway to study within a more traditional and devoted belief system. If one understands that these self-initiated practices and beliefs are actually sacred to peoples and cultures, each with its own rules and systems, then one is far more likely to tread carefully and show respect where it is due. Who knows, it may even spark curiosity into the practitioner’s own lineage and cultural belief system, and now we’re headed toward the good work.
Study.
Be Humble.
Practice Discipline.
Show Respect.