Syncretism and Western Culture
Syncretic Hybridization
Joshua Kwalk
Visions and Stones
A Look into Korean Shamanism and Rock Divination - Stanley Baran Korean shamans that practice divination use many tools to give readings, possibly the most interesting being the use of rocks and stones to grant wishes. Korean shamans also incorporate many cultural aspects into their readings, such as their belief in gods and also zodiac and age calendars. Musindo (Gods) Shamans often keep many paintings and statues of musindo, or gods, in their houses. Their gods symbolize many objects in nature, such as mountains and also the sun and moon. During readings, shamans often utilize their many paintings and statues of their gods to channel their energy. In addition, shamans believe that their god's spiritual power allows them to better connect with their clients, allowing them to perform more accurate and thorough readings. Charts Shamans in Korea often use charts to determine their clients' fate and characteristics. The above chart is specifica...
By relating syncretism to history and other modern topics it makes it easier to understand the idea of syncretism. Thank you for your post!
ReplyDeletei think it highlights the importance for anthropology and making knowledge of unique cultures more accessible in order to preserve history (hopefully). I know in Belize, there is vast Mayan ruins which remain unexcavated simply because there isn't funds or priority to explore them... who knows what could be under there!?
ReplyDeleteIt is really interesting to see how over time the exporting of Western values and cultures increased. It's true what they say: winners write history. When you're a dominant force, you're ideals and culture mix and alter what used to be. I'm sure there has been resistance to Western encroachment, but it seems hard to stave off. Interesting read for sure!
ReplyDeleteSpot on presentation, And records do show, it is true that Western and European nations showed power by control and wealth. great read and love the image choice!
ReplyDeleteYour post was great, as it allowed me to better understand syncretism! Also, great picture choices!
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