Sami Animism
The Sami of what eventually becomes Lapland to outsiders has a religious tradition of Animism & polytheism where all significant natural objects have a soul. This is especially true with animal life, and there are multiple spirits in existence. Veneration of the dead is also highly important. They worship the bear, and other animal spirits such as the Haldi. Some Sámi people have a thunder god called Horagalles. Rana Niejta is "the daughter of the green, fertile earth". They follow the same practise as their neighbours by having the belief in a world tree or pillar, and it joins the earth to the North Star.
Unusual parts of the landscape, called locally Sieidis, is of great religious significance to the Sami. Each family and/or clan have their own spirits that have connections to these Sieidis. The spirits are called Storjunkare and fresh twigs in winter at these, and grass in the summer, along with other offerings for protection and good luck. Reindeer are usually sacrificed at these spots.
A Noaide is a male mediator between the Sami, the spirits and the underworld. They use Sami drums and a flute called a fadno during these ceremonies.
Type
Religious, Cult
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