Animism: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฟ
animism
[ หรฆn.ษช.mษช.zษm ]
philosophical belief
Animism is the belief that objects, places, and creatures all possess a distinct spiritual essence. This worldview holds that all elements of the natural world are imbued with life and spirit. It often leads to the view that these spirits can influence human behavior and the environment. Animism is prevalent in various tribal and indigenous religions, where nature is revered and various entities like trees, rivers, and animals are honored as sacred. The practice of animism includes rituals that communicate with these spirits for guidance and support.
Synonyms
life-force belief, nature worship, paganism, spiritualism.
Examples of usage
- The tribe practiced animism, worshipping the spirits of their ancestors.
- In animism, animals are considered to be spiritual beings with their own identities.
- Many in indigenous cultures express their beliefs through animism.
- The artist's work reflects themes of animism by depicting nature as alive.
- Animism often contrasts with organized religions that prioritize a single deity.
Translations
Translations of the word "animism" in other languages:
๐ต๐น animismo
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเฅเคตเคตเคพเคฆ
๐ฉ๐ช Animismus
๐ฎ๐ฉ animisme
๐บ๐ฆ ะฐะฝัะผัะทะผ
๐ต๐ฑ animizm
๐ฏ๐ต ใขใใใบใ
๐ซ๐ท animisme
๐ช๐ธ animismo
๐น๐ท animizm
๐ฐ๐ท ์ ๋๋ฏธ์ฆ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุงูุฃููู ูุฉ
๐จ๐ฟ animismus
๐ธ๐ฐ animizmus
๐จ๐ณ ๆณ็ต่ฎบ
๐ธ๐ฎ animizem
๐ฎ๐ธ eรฐlislรญfsmynd
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฐะฝะธะผะธะทะผ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ animizm
๐ฒ๐ฝ animismo
Etymology
The term 'animism' was first coined by the anthropologist Edward Burnett Tylor in the late 19th century, specifically in his work 'Primitive Culture' published in 1871. He used the word to describe the belief systems of various cultures where natural elements are imbued with spiritual significance. The root of the word 'animism' comes from the Latin 'anima', meaning 'soul' or 'spirit'. This concept was intended to reflect the belief that not only humans but also animals, plants, and even inanimate objects possess an inner life. Over time, the understanding of animism has evolved, influencing various fields including anthropology, sociology, and religious studies. Today, it is recognized as a significant aspect of many indigenous belief systems, emphasizing a deep connection and respect for nature, contrasting with more anthropocentric worldviews prevalent in modern society.
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #29,785, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
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- 29782 interceded
- 29783 polluter
- 29784 reverberate
- 29785 animism
- 29786 materialised
- 29788 emigre
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