Communication of Tradition(s): Narrative Templates of Magical Healing in Urban Shamanism
Traditiones December 2, 2023 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.3986/traditio2023520102 via OpenAlex
Summary
Slovak traditional concepts of magical healing are utilized by a group surrounding an urban shaman in Bratislava. The narratives shared by practitioners about spiritual healing reflect templates found in Slovak folk stories. This connection highlights the significance of folk tradition in shaping and localizing alternative spirituality, aiding in the retention of spiritual concepts.
Study at a glance
| Population | a group around an urban shaman in Bratislava, Slovakia |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Folk tradition is crucial for adapting alternative spirituality to local conditions and enhances the remembrance of spiritual concepts. |
Abstract
The paper examines how Slovak traditional concepts related to magical healing are used in a group around an urban shaman living in Bratislava (Slovakia). It is argued that practitioners’ stories about spiritual healing are based on narrative templates which could be identified in Slovak traditional folk stories. It is concluded that folk tradition plays an important role in adapting alternative spirituality to local conditions because it contributes to better remembrance of spiritual concepts.