Shamanism and the Shamanic Complex

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to introduce biblical interpreters to shamanism and the study of the shamanic complex. The shaman represents an identifiable pattern of religious entrepreneurs with shared practices and beliefs based on alternate states of consciousness experiences. Based on the bodily and neurological potential for alternate states of consciousness experiences, shamanism finds unique expression within different cultural settings. Shamanic studies also provide the potential for understanding and analyzing various aspects of the biblical tradition. In the final section visionary, ecstatic and prophetic stories as well as other alternate states of consciousness experiences associated with figures such as Paul and Jesus, are presented.