Indigenous & folk religions

Origin

Indigenous and folk religions are the oldest forms of belief of humankind. Tens of thousands of years ago, hunter-gatherers already revered spirits, animals and ancestors.

Beliefs and practice

The world is seen as alive: mountains, rivers, animals and the dead have a soul or power. Shamans and elders mediate with the spirits. Knowledge is usually passed on orally, in myths, songs and rituals.

Spread

These beliefs existed on every continent, for example among Aboriginal Australians, the peoples of Siberia, Indigenous peoples of the Americas and in Africa. Many were pushed back by mission and colonial rule or mixed with Christianity and Islam.

Today

About 400 million people still follow traditional beliefs, often alongside another religion. They are especially alive in Africa and parts of Asia.

Good to know

• Aboriginal Australians tell of the “Dreaming”.
• Many Indigenous peoples see land as sacred.
• Siberian shamans are the origin of the word “shaman”.