Uno Harva
Permalaisten uskonto
"Permalaisten uskonto" by Uno Harva is an anthropological study written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the ancient religious beliefs and practices of the Permi people, focusing on their traditions surrounding the worship of ancestors, spirits, and nature. The book examines various rituals and cultural aspects related to their spirituality, particularly emphasizing the significance of ancestor veneration. The opening of this study introduces the context of the Permi tribe's religious beliefs, tracing their historical interactions with other cultures, especially the Norse, through trade and conflict. The text begins by discussing early encounters with the Bjarmian land and the accounts of the Viking expeditions as they gained knowledge about the local customs and beliefs, including primitive practices of ancestor worship. The introduction sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of how these ancient beliefs evolved over time and were influenced by surrounding cultures, preparing readers for a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between the Permi people, their spirituality, and the natural world.