Kami possession

Definition

Kami possession refers to the phenomenon in Shinto where kami, or divine spirits, temporarily inhabit or influence a human being, often during rituals or ceremonies. This possession is believed to facilitate communication between the kami and participants, allowing for blessings, guidance, or healing. In this context, kami possession plays a crucial role in Shinto practices, emphasizing the connection between the spiritual and physical worlds.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kami possession is often seen during Shinto rituals such as ceremonies led by priests or priestesses who act as mediums for the kami.
2. The possessed individual may exhibit unusual behaviors or speak in different voices as they channel the kami's presence.
3. This practice underscores the belief that kami are active participants in human affairs and can offer wisdom or aid during important life events.
4. Kami possession can serve therapeutic purposes, providing emotional relief and a sense of connection to the divine.
5. Rituals involving kami possession can vary widely based on regional practices and the specific kami being invoked.

Review Questions

• How does kami possession enhance the ritual experience in Shinto practices?
  • Kami possession enhances the ritual experience by creating a direct link between humans and the divine. During rituals, when a priest or priestess becomes possessed by a kami, it allows for an authentic exchange where participants can receive blessings or guidance. This connection reinforces the communal aspect of worship and emphasizes the active role of kami in everyday life.
• Discuss the role of rituals in facilitating kami possession and their significance within Shinto.
  • Rituals are essential in facilitating kami possession as they create a structured environment for divine interaction. They involve specific prayers, offerings, and acts that prepare both the medium and the community for the presence of kami. The significance lies in their ability to bridge the gap between the physical world and spiritual entities, making it possible for individuals to seek help or insight from the kami during significant events.
• Evaluate how the concept of kami possession reflects broader themes of spirituality and community within Shinto.
  • Kami possession reflects broader themes of spirituality by illustrating how divine beings are perceived as actively involved in human experiences. This concept reinforces the idea that spirituality is not a distant ideal but an immediate reality that impacts daily life. Furthermore, it strengthens community bonds as individuals gather to witness and participate in these rituals together, fostering a shared sense of identity and collective belief in the power of kami.

Related terms

Kami: Spiritual beings or gods in Shinto, representing elements of nature, ancestors, or revered figures.

Shamanism:

A practice found in many cultures involving a shaman who mediates between the human and spirit worlds, often through trance states.

Rituals: Ceremonial acts performed in accordance with religious traditions, often aimed at invoking divine presence or favor.