Riivatud

Riivatud is a Finnish term that translates to "possessed" or "haunted" in English. It is primarily used in folklore and religious contexts to describe a state of being controlled or influenced by an external, often malevolent, supernatural entity. This entity could be a demon, a spirit, or even a curse. The concept of riivatud is deeply rooted in Finnish folk beliefs and has been documented in various historical and cultural texts.

Symptoms attributed to riivatud in traditional beliefs often included erratic behavior, speaking in unknown tongues, unnatural strength, and physical contortions. These manifestations were typically interpreted as clear signs that the individual's soul or body was no longer their own. Exorcism rituals, often involving religious prayers and specific practices, were believed to be the primary method for expelling the possessing entity and restoring the individual to their normal state.

While the concept of demonic possession exists in many cultures, the term "riivatud" specifically refers to the Finnish understanding of this phenomenon. It reflects a particular set of cultural interpretations and historical responses to perceived supernatural interference. Modern interpretations of what was historically labeled as riivatud may draw on psychological or neurological explanations, but the term itself remains a significant part of Finnish cultural heritage and its exploration of the supernatural.