Shamanism: 2 definitions

Introduction
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In Hinduism
1. Shaktism
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Introduction:

Shamanism means something in Hinduism, Sanskrit. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

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In Hinduism

Shaktism (Shakta philosophy)

Source: Google Books: Manthanabhairavatantram

Shamanism in ancient India, explained according to the Ṣaṭsāhasrasaṃhitā, an expansion of the Kubjikāmatatantra: the earliest popular and most authoritative Tantra of the Kubjikā cult.—The ideal Kaula teacher is here presented as one who, observing the strictures of commensality imposed on a Brahmin and his ritual purity by regular ablutions, shares in the Brahmin’s ‘exoteric’ state, regardless of his caste. The teacher must be a Brahmin in this sense, as the Brahmin alone is empowered to perform the essential initiatory and other rites, even though they are Kaula. The most important and fundamental of these is the piercing of his disciple with consciousness. This sets him on a quasi-shamanic journey through the spheres of the universe in and outside the body.

The Brahmin is one who ‘shakes’ with the intense energy of possession. Kaula initiation, which takes place by an intense penetration of spiritual energy (āveśa) that pierces through the mind and subtle body, causes the disciple who is being initiated to shake like someone possessed. In this way, in a different milieu closer to the folk, tribal, and shamanic roots of India's indigenous non-Brahminical culture, the Kaula teacher, whatever his caste, emulates the Vedic Brahmin who also shook inebriated by the sacrificial Soma. Moreover, he transmits this ecstasy ('going out' of the body and ego etc.) to his disciple. As the possessor of power, he can also practice magic, but at the same time, he has all the 'exoteric' qualities of the good householder.

Source: Himalayan Academy: Dancing with Siva (Shaktism)

Shamanism in Śāktism:—While worship of the Divine Mother extends beyond the pale of history, Śākta Hinduism arose as an organized sect in India around the fifth century. Today it has four expressions—devotional, folk-shamanic, yogic and universalist—all invoking the fierce power of Kālī or Durgā, or the benign grace of Pārvatī or Ambikā. Śākta devotionalists use pūjā rites, especially to the Śrī-cakra-yantra, to establish intimacy with the Goddess. Shamanic Śāktism employs magic, trance mediumship, fire-walking and animal sacrifice for healing, fertility, prophecy and power. Śākta yogīs seek to awaken the sleeping Goddess Kuṇḍalinī and unite her with Śiva in the sahasrāra-cakra.

context information

Shakta (शाक्त, śākta) or Shaktism (śāktism) represents a tradition of Hinduism where the Goddess (Devi) is revered and worshipped. Shakta literature includes a range of scriptures, including various Agamas and Tantras, although its roots may be traced back to the Vedas.

Relevant text

Search found 17 books and stories containing Shamanism; (plurals include: Shamanisms). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:

Shamanism: Mastery of Spirits and Healing in Traditional and Modern Practices < [Volume 110 (2000)]

Cultural Paradox in Korean Shamanism by Chongho Kim < [Volume 131-132 (2005)]

Shamanisms of East Asia: Evolving Terms and Roles < [Volume 160 (2012)]

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Conclusion: gCod in context < [Chapter 3 - “rKang gling” in the iconography of “gcod”]

Bibliography

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1. What is Bon (the indigenous religion of Tibet)? < [Chapter 6 - Tonpa Shenrab Mibo and Bon Religion]

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Part 8 - Balinese Religion < [Chapter 4 - Inter-Disciplinary Analysis]

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Religious Conversion and Cultural Conflict < [July 1964]