Manitou

Manitou is a word for “spirit” used by the Anishinaubae (Ojibwa/ Chippewa) people of North America. Manitou literally means “mystery” or “essence.” The word refers to spirit beings but also to a quality, energy, or sacred power. There are countless Manitous. Like Orishas and Lwa, some are concerned with people, but many others are not. Manitous may be benevolent, malevolent, or anything on the spectrum in between. Many are guardian spirits of regions or specific departments of life.

SEE ALSO:

Lwa; Mishepishu; Nebaunaubae; Orisha; Windigo

SOURCE:

Encyclopedia of Spirits: The Ultimate Guide to the Magic of Fairies, Genies, Demons, Ghosts, Gods & Goddesses– Written by :Judika Illes Copyright © 2009 by Judika Illes.