One must always be careful, for the art of shamanism is…
““One must always be careful, for the art of shamanism is fueled by the power of the will, interacting with the power of the plants. And it seems all too easy for some shamans to warp that power to dark ends, to the 'shamachismo' that can drive them to serve selfish ego desires. Power corrupts, and the spirit world can corrupt absolutely if it's not approached from a perspective of openness and servitude.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Shamanic power, rooted in will and plant spirits, can be misused for ego; ethical practice demands openness and humility.
In simple terms: Power can corrupt; stay humble and open.
Practice shamanism with humility.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- ritual work
- plant medicine
- community healing
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you guard against ego in spiritual work?
- What practices foster humility?
Even with good intentions, power can still corrupt.