Finnish mythology, often associated with the ancient folklore of Finnish paganism, shares strong connections with the mythologies of neighbouring cultures, including Estonian, Slavic, Baltic, and Norse traditions. While Finnish mythology has evolved, its roots lie deep within an oral tradition of mythical poem-singing and storytelling, which continued to thrive into the 19th century.

Among the many revered elements of Finnish mythology, animals played a crucial role, with the bear being the most sacred. Known as karhu in Finnish, the bear was not only a symbol of the forest but also seen as an embodiment of the forefathers. Due to its immense cultural significance, the bear's name was rarely spoken aloud, and instead, it was referred to by various euphemisms, such as mesikämmen ("mead-paw") and otso ("browed one"). This reverence underscores the deep spiritual connection between the people and the natural world. While the bear was not strictly viewed as a god, it was an important figure in the Finnish spiritual landscape, reflecting a complex view of nature and ancestral worship.

To explore more about this fascinating mythology and its modern revival, you can refer to resources on Finnish folklore or visit dedicated cultural sites.

‍