The Spirit Wrestlers — The History of the Canadian Doukhobors

Western Canada is home to half the world’s Doukhobors, or, translated literally from the Russian, «Spirit Wrestlers.» Their Russian origins are evident in all aspects of their heritage. In keeping with their motto, «Toil and peaceful life,» Doukhobors seek to balance the basic needs of everyday life with spiritual beliefs based on Christian principles. To preserve and make known their ideals, Doukhobors have developed a rich song tradition, consisting of psalms and hymns, as well as other types of songs.