Shaman (Dao Đỏ)
2020 9m 4K 1.33
Heritage Shorts #9
In the ninth of a series of short films from Heritage Centre Sapa in association with Open Cinematic, we meet Dao shaman Lý Phù Vạn. Shaman are cornerstones of culture and society in northern Vietnam. They care for both rich and poor and preside over community events and celebrations. Essential to the shamanic traditions of the Dao is the ability to read and write Chinese. Written in Nom (Chinese characters adapted to Vietnamese), books are an integral part of a shaman’s repertoire. They range from explanations of rituals and sacred objects to astrology, history, songs, law, etiquette, children’s tales, hunting practices, formulas, spells and feng shui. Shaman make their own books to help store their knowledge and therefore no two texts are alike. A high level shaman will have an extensive library.
A requisite knowledge of Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism, Animism and ancestor worship make the shaman’s training a long and rigorous process. They must draw on a complex base of philosophies and abilities which include the use of scroll paintings, ritual texts and prints. The shaman use a collection of specific objects and instruments to aid them in entering the realm of the spirits.
Dao shaman wear robes designed for women, who were the original healers before the demands of child rearing caused a gradual shift to a predominantly male profession. Shaman wrap themselves for protection during rituals as a disguise from evil spirits. Rituals usually involve negotiating directly with supernatural beings – both good, and evil.
Shaman attempt to heal illnesses through offerings to the spirits, such as food or the sacrifice of a chicken, pig, cow or other animal. In Dao culture, the souls of sacrificial animals are connected to human souls. A shaman uses an animal's soul to support or protect his patient's soul. Healing rituals are often capped by a communal meal with the sharing of the life that has been sacrificed.
