What is the primary characteristic of animism?

The primary characteristic of animism is the belief that spiritual essence is present in various objects and creatures in the natural world. In animistic belief systems, everything from animals to plants, rocks, and even weather phenomena are viewed as having a spirit or life force. This perspective fosters a deep connection between humans and their environment, as practitioners see themselves as part of a web of life where all living and non-living things possess a form of consciousness or spirituality.

This understanding emphasizes the interconnectedness of all things and often leads to practices that honor and respect these spirits, making it fundamental to many indigenous and tribal religions around the world. In contrast to belief systems that focus on a singular or multiple deities, animism is distinguished by its holistic view of the spiritual realm woven throughout nature.