RITUAL: Under shaggy vines, Sui Dơih (centre) – the celebrant – prepares offerings including a roasted pig, grilled meat, wine, chicken liver and a piece of raw pork.

For ethnic minorities in the Tây Nguyên (Central Highlands) and mountainous regions across the country, the forest does not simply refer to materials and resources, but also a broad spiritual culture.

Forest worship practices have existed in the consciousness and life of ethnic minorities for a long time, featured in local ceremonies and festivals based on concepts of the universe and animism and represented by sacred forest gods.

Among them is the religious practice of cúng rừng (forest god worship) of the Jrai community in the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai. The event is a major tradition showing attachment to Mother Nature. Continue reading Traditional forest ritual protects Mother Nature →