The concept of the Upper and Lower worlds is more akin to the idea of parallel dimensions rather than physical layers stacked on top of each other. In the beliefs of Siberian tribes, while the sky is considered to be infinite in depth, shamans believe in the existence of a pathway that allows them to travel beyond the heavens. Similarly, while the Earth is perceived as deep and solid, there are pathways through which spirits and shamans can enter the Lower world.

According to traditional beliefs, the Upper and Lower worlds are similar to Earth, with their own sun, moon, forests, and inhabitants that resemble humans. These inhabitants are invisible when in our Middle world, and shamans traveling in these realms also become invisible. Signs of the presence of spirits can be indicated by unexpected sounds such as crackling bonfires or the barking of a fox, as well as being detected by shamans in ecstatic trance.

Lower World
The Lower world is described as a realm very similar to ours, with the key difference being that its inhabitants possess only one soul compared to humans’ five. The absence of the soul responsible for breathing and body warmth gives the inhabitants of the Lower world a cold nature, with black blood flowing in their veins. Some of these inhabitants are human souls waiting for reincarnation in our world. The Lower world also has its own sun, moon, forests, mountains, settlements, and shamans.

Erlik, the son of the Father-Heaven, rules over the Lower world and has power over souls and their reincarnation into our world. Shamans seek his assistance when returning souls that have prematurely entered the Lower world before the death of their physical bodies. Individuals typically enter Erlik’s realm only after their physical death.

There are multiple paths leading to and from the Lower world, including the World River, guarded by Mongoldai Nagts, who prevent the passage of souls whose physical bodies are still alive. Shamans may also enter this realm through caves, whirlpools, springs, or tunnels used by inhabitants of the Lower world to enter our world.

Upper World

The Upper world, like the Lower, resembles our world but is described as brighter, sometimes with seven suns. It is believed to be untouched by human influence, with its inhabitants living according to ancestral traditions. Ulgen, the son of Father Sky, rules over the Upper world.

Shamans who journey to the Upper world often transform into birds or other flying creatures for the journey. Travel to the Upper world can also be achieved by ascending the World Tree, either physically or through a trance state. In some cultures, initiation into shamanhood involves a journey to the Upper world to receive blessings and teachings from its inhabitants.

Learn all about Siberian shamanism on Ahamkara