There are various types of spirits that exist in the sky and nature. Some of these spirits hold immense power and cannot be controlled by shamans, while others are more manageable. Spirits cannot be disturbed or forced to serve unless it is to restore balance in the world, not for trivial reasons.
Spirits are not superior or inferior to other living beings; they simply have a different essence. Therefore, it is important to treat spirits with the same respect as one would treat humans and animals. Among the most powerful natural spirits are the sky spirits, known as gaenger, who reside in the four cardinal directions.
Many Siberian peoples classify shamans as either “white” or “dark” and believe that the western and eastern spirits are their respective allies. The western tengri are said to have created humans, dogs, and animals for human consumption, while the eastern tengri created eagles and spirits that can cause illness.
There must be a balance between good and evil, so the eastern spirits are not necessarily considered bad. The most powerful among the western tengri is Ulgen, the lord of the Upper World spirits, while the eastern tengri are led by Erlik, the lord of the Lower World spirits. Usan-Khan is the chief of the southern tengri, ruling over water spirits, while Kaiden, or Tatai Tenger, reigns in the north, controlling storms and other elemental manifestations. Tengri spirits are powerful and cannot be controlled, but shamans can call upon them for support during rituals.
The sky also houses endur spirits, the souls of exceptional individuals who dwell in the clouds and may bring rain. The Earth is home to various spirits like Chogagor, Ozur, Ongon, Buran, and Gazrin Izen that can cause illnesses and confusion. Shamans must guide these spirits to their rightful place.
Other spirits in nature, like Ozur, Ongon, and Buran, can become helpful allies once mastered by a shaman. Ozur and Ongon are often wandering ancestor souls, while Buran spirits are powerful and can cause illness. Shamans with strong spirit helpers can sometimes control Buran spirits by training them in a unique manner.
Learn all about Siberian shamanism on Ahamkara
