The belief that objects, places, and creatures all possess a distinct spiritual essence is a core tenet in various cultural and religious contexts. This essence may be understood as a soul, spirit, or consciousness, imbuing the natural world with a sense of agency and interconnectedness. Examples include reverence for sacred groves, the belief that rivers possess a spirit, or the acknowledgement of a spiritual presence within animals.
Understanding this belief system is important for comprehending the relationship between people and their environment, particularly in indigenous cultures. Its study reveals how cultural landscapes are shaped by spiritual values and how traditional ecological knowledge is often intertwined with animistic practices. Historically, this worldview was prevalent in many societies and continues to influence cultural practices and environmental stewardship in diverse parts of the world.