Shamanism: Archaic Techniques Of Ecstasy Official

This journey typically involves an ascent to the sky or a descent to the underworld to interact with spirits.

The book details the profound symbolism behind a shaman’s costume and drum. The drum is often viewed as a "vehicle" (like a horse or boat) that facilitates the journey into the spirit world. Shamanism: Archaic Techniques of Ecstasy

Unlike those who are "possessed" against their will, Eliade characterizes true shamans by their control over spirits and their ability to enter and exit trance at will. Global Scope and Historical Context This journey typically involves an ascent to the

Eliade defines shamanism not as a religion in itself, but as a "healing or helping technology" embedded within various cosmological frameworks. The defining characteristic of a shaman is the ability to intentionally enter an —or "ecstasy"—during which their soul is believed to leave the body. Unlike those who are "possessed" against their will,