What is an i n u i t religious belief?
Inuit religious beliefs are based on animism, which is the belief that everything in nature has a spiritual essence. The Inuit traditionally believed in a complex system of spirits, deities, and supernatural beings that governed various aspects of their lives.
One central belief is that of "Silap Inua", which refers to the life force or spirit of all living and non-living things. Inuit people believe that everything, including animals, plants, rocks, and even weather phenomena, have their own Silap Inua.
The Inuit also have a strong connection to their ancestors and believe in a spirit world known as "Adlivun". They believe that after death, the souls of their loved ones continue to exist in this spiritual realm. It is believed that the deceased can influence the lives of the living through dreams and visions.
Shamans, known as "angakkuit", play an essential role in Inuit religious practices. They have the ability to communicate with the spirit world, channeling the powers of various spirits and deities. They provide guidance, healing, and act as intermediaries between humans and the spiritual realm.
Inuit religious beliefs are deeply intertwined with their daily lives, hunting practices, and respect for the natural world. Although Western influences have led to changes in traditional beliefs, many Inuit communities still maintain their religious practices and rituals today.