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Sami ReligionThe knowledge of the Sami religion is mainly based on archeological remains and written sources from missionary works in northern Scandinavia during the Middle Ages (1500 - 1600). Some objects from the 800-1300s have been found, and the discovery sites are usually termed "Samic metal depots", due to the large findings of metal objects. The objects are mostly coins from Germany and England, and parts from weapons (e.g. arrow-heads). Some minior findings consists of horn from reindeers. The religion was a form of shamanism, practiced by the shaman for the most miscellaneous problems. The shaman, termed noajdde in the Sami language, had great influence of the peoples in the village. The instrument used for cermonies was rune drum, but even a domestic fluite, the so-called "fadno", was used. An old song style, the so-called joik, was also used (but not only) in religious rituals. Males confessed to Sacrificing to male gods, whereas females confessed to female fertility gods. Besides the existence of hunting gods, the hierarchy is somewhat similar to nordic mythology. Sacrifice of animals and metal objects was also included in some religious cermonies. "White" animals (white reindeers, cows, sheeps, etc.) played an important role. As with other circumpolar religions, the Sami religion contains a hunting cermony especially for bears, known as the bear cult. People in the northern Scandinavia today profess Christianity, but small numbers still practice the Saami religion or parts of it.
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