Many cultures have shamans, or spiritual guides, who assist individuals on spiritual journeys to the “underworld” or some other non-earthly realm. These shamanic journeys would likely be considered part of
Select one:
a. the sacred.
b. the profane.
c. creationism.
d. both the sacred and creationism.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is a. the sacred.
Shamanic journeys are typically seen as part of the spiritual or sacred dimension of human experience. In many cultures, shamans or spiritual guides help individuals enter altered states of consciousness, which may involve traveling to non-earthly realms such as the “underworld” or other mystical spaces. These experiences are not just seen as a form of entertainment or leisure, but rather as profound, spiritually significant events that connect the individual to higher powers, ancestors, or the cosmos.
The sacred refers to things that are regarded as holy, divine, or transcendent. In this context, the shamanic journey is an exploration of these higher realms and spiritual forces. The journey may be undertaken for healing, guidance, or to gain insight into the nature of existence and the afterlife. Since such journeys are rooted in spiritual practices and often involve communication with otherworldly beings or forces, they are considered part of the sacred rather than the profane.
The term “profane” refers to things that are secular, mundane, or not associated with religious or spiritual significance. Since shamanic journeys are spiritual by nature, they fall outside the realm of the profane.
While some might associate these journeys with creationism in the sense of understanding the origins of the world or the universe, the primary focus is on spiritual exploration rather than literal creation narratives. Therefore, creationism is not the most fitting answer.
In conclusion, shamanic journeys, as part of spiritual and sacred practices, are best classified under the category of the sacred.