The revitalisation of Mongolian shamanism: Tradition, restitution, new approaches
Etnografia. Praktyki, Teorie, Doświadczenia December 16, 2024 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.26881/etno.2024.10.02
Summary
After the fall of socialism, Mongolia shifted from atheism to religious freedom, allowing Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and especially shamanism to revive. Shamanism, Mongolia's indigenous religion, had a tragic history and long decline but re-emerged due to unique local traditions. This article examines the causes of shamanism's centuries-long decline, the influences behind its revival, and its institutionalization. It also explores new research trends and how traditional and innovative elements combine in shamanism's resurgence.
Study at a glance
| Design | theoretical or philosophical paper |
|---|---|
| Key finding | Mongolian shamanism has revived after a prolonged decline due to religious freedom following socialism's collapse, blending traditional and innovative elements. |
Abstract
Since the collapse of the socialist system in the past 30 years, Mongolia has transitioned from an atheist state to one where multiple religions – such as Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam – coexist freely, with no restrictions on freedom of belief. This transformationhas also spurred the revival of shamanism, the indigenous religion of the Mongols. Despite its tragic history, Mongolian shamanism, shaped by unique local traditions, has shown a remarkable ability to re-emerge after a prolonged period of decline. The articleaims to explore the factors behind the centuries-long decline of Mongolian shamanism, the influences that facilitated its revival, and the process of institutionalization it has undergone. Furthermore, it examines the emerging trends in the study of Mongolian shamanism and the interplay of traditional and innovative elements in its revival.