SHAMANISTIC SURVIVALS IN ANATOLIA: AN ANALYSIS OF CULTURAL CONTINUITY

Shamanistic beliefs and practices persist in contemporary Turkish culture in Anatolia, despite centuries of interaction with other religions and cultures. A qualitative descriptive survey, using literature review as the main data collection tool, examined how ancient Shamanistic traditions have been preserved and transmitted. Practices such as using evil eye beads, tying red ribbons, lead pouring rituals, tying cloths on trees, reciting mevlit and hymns, and giving children nature-inspired names demonstrate the continuing presence of Shamanistic elements. These findings indicate that Shamanism remains influential in Turkish cultural memory and daily life, not merely as a historical belief system.

Study at a glance

Abstract

This study aims to explore the cultural continuity of Shamanistic beliefs and practices within Turkish society living in Anatolia. The primary objective of the research is to examine how the Turks—who have interacted with various religions and cultures throughout history—have preserved and transmitted elements of their ancient Shamanistic traditions to the present day. A qualitative research method was employed, and a descriptive survey model was adopted as the research design. A literature review served as the main data collection tool. The central research question is defined as follows: What Shamanistic practices and beliefs continue to exist in Anatolia today, and what role do they play in Turkish culture? The study is subject to certain limitations, including restricted source availability and regional variations in practices. Its originality lies in its presentation of concrete examples demonstrating the persistence of Shamanistic elements within contemporary Turkish culture. Key findings reveal that practices such as the use of the evil eye bead, red ribbons, lead pouring rituals, tying cloths on trees, reciting mevlit and hymns, and giving children nature-inspired names indicate the continuing presence of Shamanistic traditions in Anatolia. These results highlight that Shamanism is not merely a historical belief system but remains influential in Turkish cultural memory and daily life.