Hmong Shamanism 101
Below are the very basics of what Hmong shamanism is and what types there are. I figure it could be helpful for friends and family to learn a little the many aspects of Hmong shamanism.
Hmong Shamanism 101
The Hmong Shaman:
1. Txiv Neeb; pronounced "Tsi / Neng;" is the name given to a male identified shaman. A male shaman is often referred to as "father shaman."
2. Niam Neeb; pronounced "Nia / Neng;" is the name given to a female identified shaman. A female shaman is often referred to as "mother shaman."
Two Types of Shaman Veils:
1. Neeb Hauv Thi Dub: These Hmong shamans wear a black veil over their face. The Hmong term "dub" can be translated to black.
2. Neeb Hauv Thi Liab: These Hmong shamans wear a red veil over their face. The Hmong term "liab" can be translated to red.
The color veil that is used by a shaman is determined by what their master of xib fwb uses. For example, if a Master uses the color red, their students will use the color red as well. However, this can change if the individual's shaman spirits notify the individual, through dream, of what color veil they prefer.
Two Types of Shaman Benches or "Rooj Neeb:"
1. Neeb Dhia Rooj: These types of shaman benches are longer, flexible, and are mostly used by shamans who jump (see below).
2. Neeb Tsis Dhia Rooj: These types of shaman benches are shorter, harder, and are mostly used by shamans who stomp (see below)
Types of Hmong Shaman:
There are many types of Hmong shamanism. however, below are four of the most basic types of Hmong shamanism.
1. Neeb Txwv Zeeb: This type of neeb is passed down from generation. Selected individuals are selected by their ancestors who were shamans before them. Typically, the selection occurs every other generation. For example, if Tub has this type of shaman, his father could not have been a shaman, but his grandpa was. There are exceptions as well.
2. Neeb Siv Yis: Selected individuals are said to be chosen by Siv Yis. Siv Yis is said to be the very first Hmong shaman and spiritual healer.
3. Neeb Leej Nkaub: People who have these shamans are said to be directly selected by Leej Nkaub. Hmong folktale tells that Leej Nkaub is Siv Yis' son who was also a shaman.
4. Neeb Saub: These types of shamans are often referred to as "psychics." They possess many different abilities and aspects of shamanism. Hmong folktale tells of an old immortal man named "Saub." He was given powers from heaven to help and heal people. He was known for his psychic ability.
How Does One Become a Shaman?
Stage 1: People are often selected as shamans through two ways. The first is through a near death sickness and/or constant illness. The second is through paranormal or spiritual experiences. An experienced shaman is called to perform a diagnostic ritual.
Stage 2: An experienced shaman must come to perform a ritual for the individual and only through that do we determine if they have been selected. The experienced shaman must travel the other realm and speak with the family's ancestors. The experienced shaman receives an answer.
Stage 3: A confirmation ritual is performed in which the individual is seated on the shaman bench with a veil over their face and shaman bells in their fingers. The experienced shaman then hits their gong and calls upon shaman spirits. If the individual shakes or stomps, it is a sign and confirmation that the individual has been chosen and must become a shaman. The experienced shaman then becomes the master to that individual.
Note: If the individual does not shake or stomp during this ritual, that simply means the experienced shaman is not meant to become the master to that individual. Shaman spirits choose the master. The family must then find another experienced shaman and a confirmation ritual is ignited again.
Stage 4: Training starts as soon as the success of the confirmation ritual. The student shaman will practice and train on a small altar for about three-four years (varies). Thereafter, the master shaman will come and raise the altar to a much bigger one.
Two Types of Shaman Rituals:
1. Ua Neeb Saib: This is the diagnostic ritual. Before a healing ritual can take place, a diagnostic ritual can determine the main cause of an illness or sickness. During this ritual, the shaman can see where the soul has gone and what has happened to have caused such an illness. There are many reasons why a diagnostic ritual might be performed, typically for illnesses, bad dreams and omens, constant bad luck or family feuds, and paranormal activity.
2. Ua Neeb Kho: This is the healing ritual. After a diagnostic ritual has been performed, the shaman will then start the healing process. During this ritual, the shaman must go find the soul, follow it, and bring it home safely. This typically involves the sacrifice of animals, typically chickens and pigs, although some shamans might use a rock.