SOULS, SPIRITS (GHOSTS), AND ANCESTORS Anth Ritual, religion & magic

Individualized gods

Distinct supernatural beings with localized identities and personhood, unique to specific regions or societies.

Diversity of Deities

The variation of gods across different regions and cultures, each exhibiting unique personalities and influences.

Local spiritual entities

Beings that regularly interact with people, differing from distant deities and often perceived as having less power.

Role of ancestors in non-western societies

Ancestors are believed to play a significant and positive role, contributing to the security and prosperity of the group.

Transformed human beings

Entities that used to be human before becoming spirits or ancestors.

Non-human entities

Beings that were never human and exist independently.

Veneration

Honoring spirits by visiting shrines or sacred objects.

Personhood

Spirits and ancestors can have names and identities or may be seen as a collective.

Representation of ancestors

Objects or symbols associated with the dead that are used in rituals to connect with their legacy.