Okinawan Shamanism

Though Okinawa’s spiritual practices have been influenced by the major religions of Japan and China – Shintoism, Buddhism and Taoism – the indigenous religious traditions of the islands are animistic and shamanic. To the Okinawan people, the world is full of sacred spirits (kami).  Blessings can be gained and misfortunes averted by giving respect to the appropriate kami, through prayers and religious rituals. Women have traditionally held the major positions in Okinawan religion.  Two distinct roles, filled only by women, facilitate a community’s relationship with the spirits.  The kaminchu is a hereditary priestess who conducts religious rites and ceremonies.  Shamanic powers were formerly associated with the kaminchu, but this is no longer the case.  The yuta is a shaman in the truest sense of the word.  She is an intermediary between the spirit and mundane worlds and, like shamans the world over, uses her powers to heal, protect and inform her community. For more information about Okinawa and Okinawan shamanism, please visit: http://www.okinawa.com/religion.html