Tradition / Region: Shamanistic traditions (Central and Inner Asia)
Alternate Names: —
Category: Shaman / spirit intermediary
The Myth
In shamanistic belief, bökh are shamans who stand between the material world and the realm of spirits. They are understood as individuals capable of communicating directly with unseen beings and forces that shape human life.
Through ritual practice, the bökh enters trance states to cross into the spiritual domain. In this state, they encounter various spirits, which may be ancestral spirits of the dead, spirits of animals and natural forces, or celestial beings associated with the sky and higher realms. These spirits are approached for guidance, healing, protection, and knowledge.
The bökh does not command the spirits by force, but negotiates with them through chants, drumming, offerings, and ritual movement. Their role is to carry messages between worlds, restore balance when illness or misfortune strikes, and protect the community from harmful spiritual influences.
In this tradition, the bökh is not merely a healer or priest, but a living bridge between humanity and the spiritual order that surrounds and penetrates the world.
Interpretive Lenses
Religious Readings
Philosophical Readings
Psychological Readings
Esoteric Deep Dive
- Hermetic Deep Dive