Symbolism, Terminology and Practices
Shamans
Shamans pass through a ‘gateway’ into another world by entering a sacred space through trance where they can talk to ancestors and spirits, and connect with the energy of the Earth. It becomes a journey to the outer edge, the ‘web of being’ linked by a stream of endless energy. They must pass through stages of initiation where they face their own fears and connect with their authentic selves. When going out into the wilderness or nature this is also called a ‘vision quest’, and is linked with purification by fasting and rituals to connect with the Earth, and to bring forth knowledge.