Seeking guidance from the spirits: Neo-shamanic divination rituals in modern Dutch society

Despite the fact that the Netherlands is one of the most secularized countries of Western Europe, different forms of religiosity have emerged, such as charismatic movements and alternative spirituality. Some people are seeking to find security and religious fulfilment in the complicated context of modern Dutch society through unusual, irrational and creative new spiritual practices. Neo-shaman divination rituals offer enchanted repertoires to cope with decision-making and problems of the soul. This paper explores the ways in which especially highly educated women engage in creative trance journeys to meet neo-shamanic guides. The neo-shamanic worldview and symbolic healing practices offer them new religious expressions to get a grip on the existential insecurities of an unsure future. © 2008 Social Compass