animism Definition
- 1the belief that all natural objects and phenomena possess spirits or souls
- 2the attribution of a soul to plants, inanimate objects, and natural phenomena
- 3the 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.
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.