What are the chief aspects of the primal religions and how are they reflected in this culture?

The term
primal religions often refers to the religions of peoples indigenous to Africa, the Americas,
Southeast Asia, and Oceania.

One major aspect of these religions is that they
rely heavily on oral tradition. In societies that formed their religious tradition prior to
developing a system of writing, oral storytelling is a key component. Whether through song or
story, the religious traditions of these societies are passed down through the generations
orally.

Another aspect of primal religions is that they are practiced on a
local scale. Usually, their practitioners are limited to a small community or group of families.
Proselytization is rare, and these religions seldom spread at all beyond their initial
followers.

Primal religions are also often polytheistic, meaning they worship
many gods. Some gods are certainly ranked higher or lower than others in terms of power,
ability, and importance, but there are a pantheon of deities.

Animism is
another common component of primal religions. This is the belief that objects and creatures all
have a spiritual component. This usually plays out as a respect and reverence for all aspects of
the natural world. This even extends to revering a specific location as places can be imbued
with a spiritual essence as well.

Shamans are more common in primal
religions. These are individuals who serve as intermediaries between ordinary people and the
world of the deities and/or the land of the dead. They can serve the role of healer, teacher,
and spiritual guide.

Ancestor worship is practiced frequently in primal
religions. Since they are usually specific to a small group of families, the religion can serve
as a vehicle for remembering and respecting the common ancestors of the community.

There are a number of ways that these religions are reflected in other cultures. Most
other religions have intermediaries or guides to assist their practitioners in their religious
life. Song and storytelling exist in every culture, even if not used for a religious purpose.
Many parts of a culture can derive from a former religious origin even if that is not its
purpose today.