What is the term for a spiritual specialist believed to have influence with good and evil spirits, particularly in some northern Asian and North American cultures?

The term "Shaman" refers to a spiritual specialist found in various indigenous cultures, particularly in northern Asia and among some North American tribes. Shamans are believed to have the ability to communicate with and influence the spirit world, which includes both benevolent and malevolent spirits. They often serve as healers, mediators, and guides, leveraging their unique connection to spiritual entities to address various issues within their communities, such as illness or conflict.

The role of a shaman is characterized by practices that often include rituals, drumming, and the use of altered states of consciousness to enter the spiritual realm. This deep connection to both the natural and supernatural worlds sets shamans apart from other spiritual leaders, such as priests, who generally operate within established religious institutions and have predetermined roles.

In contrast, priests typically serve within organized religions and conduct formalized rituals and sacraments. Rabbis are religious leaders in Judaism, well-versed in Jewish law and teachings, while gurus are spiritual teachers in Hinduism who guide their disciples along spiritual paths. Each of these roles has its own context and function but does not encapsulate the unique spiritual practice and communal role of a shaman.