altaïsm

Altaïsm is a term used to describe a set of beliefs and practices found among the Altai people, an ethnic group indigenous to the Altai Mountains in Southern Siberia. It is a form of shamanism, characterized by a deep connection to nature and a belief in a spirit world that interacts with the human realm. Central to Altaïsm is the figure of the shaman, who acts as a mediator between the physical and spiritual worlds. Shamans are believed to possess the ability to communicate with spirits, heal the sick, and foretell the future through trance states and rituals.

The spiritual landscape of Altaïsm includes a pantheon of deities and spirits, often associated with natural elements such as mountains, rivers, sky, and earth. Ancestor veneration is also a significant aspect, with spirits of deceased relatives playing a role in the lives of the living. Rituals and ceremonies are vital for maintaining balance and harmony within the community and with the natural world. These often involve offerings, drumming, chanting, and sacred dances.

Altaïsm has been influenced by various historical and cultural interactions, including Buddhism and later, during the Soviet era, faced suppression. Despite these challenges, many of its traditions have persisted, and there has been a resurgence of interest and practice in recent decades. The preservation of Altaïsm is closely linked to the cultural identity and heritage of the Altai people, reflecting their unique worldview and relationship with their ancestral homeland.