Ainu illness and healing: a symbolic interpretation

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Abstract
Ainu “metaphysical illnesses” are characterized by the presence of spiritual beings such as demons or deities in illness causation or aggravation, or as a source of curing power. This paper offers a symbolic interpretation of Ainu metaphysical illnesses by reference to the basic cognitive structure of Ainu medical epistemology, which is founded upon sacred‐profane dyads within a “social network” of cosmic organization. Pathogenic demons represent intrinsic, anarchic, and permanent structural anomalies. They contrast with extrinsic, creative, temporary cosmic disjunctions of the universe, which also cause illnesses. Anarchic anomalies of demons are differentiated from creative anomalies of mediation symbols, as embodied in the shaman's spirits. The power to counterattack structural anomalies (and to cure patients) derives from symbolism of the profane, which is tapped by nonformalized power of shamans and women in Ainu society. [symbolic anthropology, anomaly and mediation, ethnomedicine, women, Ainu]