Introduction
Understanding Muism, Korean shamanism
Muism is a diverse ritual tradition that has coexisted with Buddhism, Confucianism and Christianity. Its specialists act as intermediaries during family crises, diseases, deuils, economic projects or community celebrations.
Korean chronicles mention old ecstatic practices, but the current Muism results from a long evolution.
To be retained
Four essential principles
- Muism is a diverse ritual tradition that coexisted with Buddhism, Confucianism and Christianity.
- Korean chronicles mention old ecstatic practices, but the current Muism results from a long evolution.
- The "gut" combines colourful altars, offerings, music, dance, costume changes, stories and possession.
- muism transforms tensions between living, dead and deities into ritual dialogue.
Small timeline
A tradition shaped by history
Origins and training
Korean chronicles mention old ecstatic practices, but the current Muism results from a long evolution.
Historical developments
The Confucian elites often despised him and modern states campaigned against "superstition."
Ritual life and teachings
The "gut" combines colourful altars, offerings, music, dance, costume changes, stories and possession.
A living and plural tradition
Despite this, rites have survived and some are now recognized as cultural heritage.
History and development
The Korean chronicles mention old ecstatic practices, but the current Muism is the result of a long evolution. Confucian elites often despised it and modern states waged campaigns against "superstition".
Despite this, rites have survived and some are now recognized as cultural heritage.
Worldview, beliefs and practices
The "gut" combines colorful altars, offerings, music, dance, costume changes, narratives and possession. The "mudang" can successively embody several spirits, convey their words and restore a relationship.
Some become specialists after a call sickness and initiation; others inherit a ritual lineage, an important distinction depending on the region.
Texts, symbols and transmission
Myths sung *muga*, paintings of deities, fans, bells, ritual knives and costumes. The traditions of Jeju Island differ greatly from those of Seoul or the east coast.
What research can and cannot say
The states of possession have observable psychological and performance dimensions, but reducing them to mental disorder ignores their cultural setting and ritual mastery. The majority of women of the "mudang" also offered a space of authority to women.
References