animism

[ˈænɪmɪzəm]

animism Definition

• 1. the belief that all natural objects and phenomena possess spirits or souls
• 2. the attribution of a soul to plants, inanimate objects, and natural phenomena
• 3. the belief that everything in nature has a spirit or soul

Using animism: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "animism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  Animism is an ancient belief system that is still practiced in some cultures today.

• Example

  The animism of indigenous peoples often involves rituals and ceremonies to honor the spirits of nature.

• Example

  Some scholars argue that animism is the oldest form of religion.

Phrases with animism

• neo-animism

  a modern form of animism that incorporates elements of ecology and environmentalism

  Example

  Neo-animism emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of preserving the natural world.

• shamanic animism

  a type of animism that involves communication with spirits through a shaman or other spiritual leader

  Example

  Shamanic animism is practiced by many indigenous cultures around the world.

• ancestor worship

  the veneration of ancestors or deceased family members, often associated with animism

  Example

  Ancestor worship is an important part of many animistic religions.

Origins of animism

from Latin 'anima', meaning 'breath, soul'

📌

Summary: animism in Brief

'Animism' [ˈænɪmɪzəm] is a belief system that attributes spirits or souls to all natural objects and phenomena. It is an ancient belief that is still practiced in some cultures today, often involving rituals and ceremonies to honor the spirits of nature. 'Neo-animism' is a modern form of animism that emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of preserving the natural world.