shaman
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shaman
A person in certain Indigenous cultures who is believed to have spiritual abilities, healing powers, and the ability to make contact with the spirit world.
Der Schamane des Stammes wurde gerufen, um den Kranken zu heilen.
The tribe's shaman was called to heal the sick man.
You can recognize the figurative meaning from the modern context, often in the area of technology or work. The original meaning usually refers to Indigenous cultures, rituals, or spirituality.
Der Schamane führte ein traditionelles Heilungsritual durch.
The shaman performed a traditional healing ritual.
In the original context, 'Schamane' (shaman) is often combined with verbs such as 'rufen' (to call), 'aufsuchen' (to consult/visit), or 'befragen' (to ask/consult). People also speak of the 'Kräfte' (powers) or 'Rituale' (rituals) of the shaman.
Die Dorfbewohner befragten den Schamanen um Rat.
The villagers consulted the shaman for advice.
Using 'Schamane' (shaman) for an expert is colloquial and often meant in a slightly ironic or admiring way. It describes someone whose abilities seem almost magical.
Unser neuer Kollege ist ein wahrer Excel-Schamane.
Our new colleague is a true Excel shaman.
priest
'Priester' and 'Schamane' can both refer to people who perform special rituals in a religion or spiritual tradition. For this reason, learners may confuse the words. However, 'Priester' is a more general or Christian-influenced word for a religious officeholder, especially in churches or in historical religions. 'Schamane' fits certain Indigenous cultures and emphasizes contact with the spirit world, healing rituals, and special spiritual abilities. For a church, Mass, or temple, 'Priester' is usually correct. For traditional healing and spirit rituals of this kind, 'Schamane' is more precise.
Der Schamane führte ein Ritual durch, um einen Kranken zu heilen.
The shaman performed a ritual to heal a sick person.
Im alten Tempel brachte der Priester ein Opfer für die Götter dar.
In the ancient temple, the priest offered a sacrifice to the gods.