Spirituality

Greenland's indigenous spirituality, deeply rooted in the Inuit way of life, has undergone significant transformations over the years. While Inuit spiritual beliefs remain part of cultural identity in some regions, they are less commonly practiced elsewhere, particularly in the south. The influence of colonization, Christian missionary efforts, and modern societal shifts have all played a role in reshaping spiritual traditions across the island.

On the Kujataa site, many residents today identify as either Christian or agnostic, rather than as practitioners of traditional Inuit spirituality. The legacy of colonialism is deeply felt here, as Christianity was introduced and reinforced through missionary efforts. As Aron Jakobsen, a retired former bus driver in Narsarsuaq, pointed out: "Many Inuit were led to view their ancestral spiritual beliefs as primitive, even evil, which led to a widespread internalized rejection of their traditional practices."

However, at Kujataa, Inuit spirituality has not been erased by colonial history. Despite many residents adopting the Christian faith, a form of spiritual hybridity has emerged. Traditional beliefs and practices have not completely disappeared but have merged with Christianity, creating a kind of cultural syncretism.This hybridity is also reflected in the respect for nature and ancestors, which remain central values even in a Christian context.

At Kujataa, Inuit identity is therefore woven in a complex way, between ancestral spiritual heritage and religious modernity. This unique blend of old and new beliefs is a testament to the cultural resilience of the Inuit, who have managed to preserve aspects of their tradition while adapting to the realities of the contemporary world.

While Inuit spirituality is not as widely practiced as in the past, some elements remain. Certain individuals continue to observe traditional customs. However, the presence of angakkuq, shamans, once central figures in Inuit spiritual and social life, has significantly declined, and many traditional ceremonies are becoming rarer.

Despite the decline in formal spiritual practices, elements of Inuit beliefs still persist in the South, in various forms. Two significant spiritual concepts that continue to be acknowledged are Toornaq and Qivittoq.

Qivittoq are supernatural beings that exist between the human and animal worlds. They are said to be individuals who have left society to live in the wilderness, ultimately transforming into half-human, half-animal entities. Feared and respected, they symbolize both the dangers and the mysteries of isolation in Greenland’s harsh environment.
Toornaq are spiritual helpers that can be either benevolent or malevolent. Angakkuit (shamans) communicated with these spirits to seek guidance, healing, or power. While shamanic traditions have largely faded, some people still hold beliefs in the presence of Toornaq and their influence in everyday life.

The spiritual landscape of Greenland continues to evolve, shaped by historical and contemporary influences. The memories of shamans, rituals, and spirits like Toornaq and Qivittoq continue to live on, reflecting a deep and complex spiritual heritage that, while fading, is not entirely lost.