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Is Shamanism a religion?
Posted: 22 Jan 2021, 11:26
by Abacus
When I search Google for "Shaman - capitalize?" more references say do not capitalize. At least one suggests that shamanism is not a religion.
Religion Stylebook:
shaman
A spiritual leader in a tribal society who heals people by channeling spirits, often in an altered state. Sometimes referred to as a medicine man or witch doctor. It is a description rather than a formal title; do not capitalize, even when used with a name.
Re: Is Shamanism a religion?
Posted: 25 Jan 2021, 17:10
by Stephanie Runyon
Shaman are similar to Priests
At least in Native American terms. I think that unless a name follows it, then it shouldn't be capitalized. I know that saying the pope without a name is not. I looked that up in the Merriam Dictionary.
Re: Is Shamanism a religion?
Posted: 29 Jan 2021, 04:41
by MissM94
I personally don’t think it is a religion because it involves a person who is able to communicate with spirits so that they can heal people. In Africa they are called traditional healers. All they do is to appease their gods/ancestors, communicate with them, and get information on how to heal people. You can become a healer if only you have a calling.
Re: Is Shamanism a religion?
Posted: 30 Jan 2021, 02:26
by Stephanie Runyon
MissM94 wrote: ↑29 Jan 2021, 04:41
I personally don’t think it is a religion because it involves a person who is able to communicate with spirits so that they can heal people. In Africa they are called traditional healers. All they do is to appease their gods/ancestors, communicate with them, and get information on how to heal people. You can become a healer if only you have a calling.
I think you have a valid point. I think it depends greatly on Nationality and personal belief systems.