Thread: I am a shaman

Originally Posted by Descensus

I've only skimmed this thread, but has anybody (especially the OP) defined what it means to be a shaman?

I looked up the most common definitions and the common theme is one who believes they can enter into certain altered states in which they can get insight or vision from "the spirit world."

I have no problem accepting anyone's claim to this. A future common theme is that they reach this state by drug use or other methods such as sleep deprivation or starvation.

A generally accepted sub-theme is a close relationship with nature.




I could call myself a Shaman by these guide lines, but really choose not to for reasons I gave above.

Note that The Shaman believes they are making some form of contact with "the Spirit World" and the truth of such topics as "does such a thing exist" are not relevant to calling oneself a Shaman any more than "does God exist" have a bearing on if someone is a priest.


I would never have doubted a normal sounding member who posted a thread of this title, but face it that does not apply to this OP.