The Spiritual Significance of Birds in Sámi Tradition

Abstract

During the 17th century small animals were connected with the Sámi noaidi – religious specialist and artist – with regard to the practice of noaidivuohta (shamanism) and other tasks he performed. Some of these animals were peculiar species of birds that varied in setting making them significant as assistants. Birds as such are illustrated on historical Sámi drums, particularly those from Swedish Sápmi. The value of birds within Sámi tradition means that some contemporary Sámi artists reuse early illustrations as sources of inspiration for new types of drum, meaning that noaidi power is manifest through their work. Moreover, one can suggest that these drums play a role in the on-going spiritual significance of birds within different settings, thus helping to perpetuate their merit today.