Saami polytheism is a unique reflection of the experience of thousands of years of survival in the conditions of the icy forest tundra. Like any other pagan Tradition of the North, it forms a metaphysical space in which even titanic beings can be subordinated to the higher will of the Gods, materially present in the world of people not as abstract concepts, for example, personifications of fire, but as specific local deities embodied in stone or tree with a unique personality.
In fact, this feature is characteristic of the sacred geography of the North, where icy cliffs and mountains become the “habitat” of the Gods of this land, on which their sacred places are located (Seyd). These Gods create and maintain world order and form a caste of shaman noid who communicate with the Gods on equal terms. They offer gifts like all men of the tribe, but “beating” Seid is the exclusive prerogative of the shaman (Noida). In the case of women, this gives rise to special stories and legends, where the Gods fulfill requests, but for violating traditions they give the result a double character – “jokes of the gods”, which can be both creative and destructive. For example, Lycanthropy can bring success in hunting, but create problems in finding a spouse. It would not be amiss to say that among the Scandinavian nations, the Sami sorcerers were considered the strongest in their craft, and the word “fin”, meaning Sami in Old Norse, was synonymous with the word “sorcerer”. Hence the corresponding root in Old Norse names. So, therefore, the Gods are not just nearby – they represent an absolute reality represented in a specific territory, but this reality is sacred. Even more sacred is the power of spirit, which, both in magic and in the spiritual realm, gave Noid the main power in Sami society.
All stories about Noid and their clashes (including meetings with monotheistic missionaries) are stories about magical battles, miracles and witchcraft. The harsh climate taught the Sami to value faith in miracles and pass on through the centuries examples of strength in a variety of manifestations.
Nōidas
