Pääsinukke

Pääsinukke is a Finnish term that translates to "spirit doll" or "spirit puppet." It refers to a doll or effigy that is believed to house a spirit or a part of a person's soul. These dolls are not typically made for children's play but are instead used in folk magic and spiritual practices.

The creation of a pääsinukke often involves a ritualistic process. Materials used can vary widely, including cloth, wood, straw, or clay. It is believed that the doll can be imbued with the essence of a person through various sympathetic magic techniques, such as using a lock of hair, a piece of clothing, or even a name. The purpose of such a doll could be for protection, to influence someone's health or fortune, or in some traditions, to act as a vessel for ancestral spirits.

Belief in pääsinukke is rooted in older animistic and shamanistic traditions found in various cultures, including those of Northern Europe. While its practice has largely faded with the advent of modern society and Christianity, some residual beliefs and practices may persist in certain folk traditions. The concept is similar to other spirit dolls or poppets found in different cultural contexts around the world, where an object is used as a conduit for spiritual energy or influence.