hanghullámmá

hanghullámmá is a term found in the Northern Sámi language, used primarily in social and cultural contexts. The word is derived from the root hanghull, meaning “to gather” or “to meet,” with the suffix –ámmá indicating a collective or a particular kind of assembly. While its literal translation may not be widely known outside Sámi-speaking communities, hanghullámmá broadly refers to a formal or informal gathering of people for purposes such as decision making, storytelling, or communal celebration.

In traditional Sámi society, hanghullámmá gatherings often serve to maintain social cohesion. Elders and community leaders may convene a hanghullámmá to discuss matters concerning reindeer herding, land use, or cultural preservation. The ceremonies associated with hanghullámmá frequently include singing, sharing of oral histories, and the exchange of gifts or resources. Such events reinforce communal identity and transmit values from one generation to the next.

Contemporary use of hanghullámmá has expanded beyond purely traditional contexts. Modern Sámi organizations and cultural groups may adopt the term to describe workshops, festivals, or forums aimed at promoting language revitalization and artistic expression. In academic literature, scholars sometimes reference hanghullámmá when analyzing Sámi communal practices, noting its importance as a mechanism for resilience and social solidarity.

Although not as widely known as other Sámi cultural concepts, hanghullámmá remains a significant element of Sámi social infrastructure, embodying the community’s emphasis on collective decision‑making, shared narration, and mutual support.