Seerimine

Seerimine is a term used in Estonian to denote the practice of divination or prophecy, involving attempts to gain knowledge of future events or hidden aspects of reality through signs, dreams, visions, or ritual acts. The word combines "seer" (prophet or seer) with the suffix "-imine," which marks an action or process.

Historically, seerimine appears in various folk traditions where individuals regarded as seers or wise persons interpreted omens, dreams, and other signals. Common methods included dream interpretation, omen reading from natural signs such as weather patterns and animal behavior, and trance-induced revelations using rhythmic music, chants, or ritual instruments. Objects such as runes, bones, herbs, or talismans were sometimes used to focus attention or facilitate readings.

In the ethnographic record, seerimine is often presented as a component of broader belief systems rather than a single uniform practice, and it varied by region, social role, and era. In modern times, interest in seerimine has persisted within folklore studies, literature, and some contemporary spiritual or neopagan communities, where it can be practiced as personal guidance or ceremonial work.

Scholarly assessments generally treat seerimine as a cultural phenomenon rather than a testable phenomenon, emphasizing its symbolic meanings, social function, and ethical questions about influence and consent.

See also divination, prophecy, clairvoyance.