How did the pre-Christian Sami communicate with localized nature spirits?

The pre-Christian Sami communicated with and propitiated localized nature spirits through specific ritual practices and the use of physical objects. Because these spirits were believed to be localized, the Sami would address them at particular sites by setting up objects such as stones or posts in significant locations.1

Among nomadic Sami groups, these sites of worship, known as seita (or sacrificial stones), were typically established near important areas such as reindeer migration routes or productive fishing spots. For these sites, the Sami generally selected an outstanding or unique stone to serve as the focal point for their offerings.2

In addition to these localized practices, the noaidi—a specialized shaman—acted as a mediator between the people and the supernatural realm. When necessary, a noaidi would perform a dramatic séance involving divinatory procedures and a trance state to confront or seek aid from supernatural beings, including guardian spirits associated with the saivo (a sacred region of the dead).34