The "treasure" to ward off evil spirits of the Khmu shaman
(Baonghean.vn) - Each ethnic group in Western Nghe An has a shaman to connect the human world with ancestors and gods. To "drive away evil spirits", the Khmu shaman must prepare many "strange" things for himself.
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| Like other ethnic communities, in Khmu villages there are also shamans whose job is to ward off evil and bring good luck to everyone. Photo: Ho Phuong |
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| According to Mr. Moong Van Manh, residing in Nam Tien 2 village (Bao Nam commune - Ky Son), to become a shaman, the Khmu people must study very carefully. They also have to prepare a lot of things in their luggage to be able to "practice the profession". Photo: Ho Phuong |
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| These iron bars are called "co mu skewers" and consist of 8 bars and are indispensable items when shamans perform rituals. Photo: Ho Phuong |
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| Two cups are made from a special type of very hard plastic that the shaman uses to pour wine and drink after the offering. Next to the plate holding the cups is a candle made from wild beeswax. According to shaman Moong Van Manh, only this type of candle can ward off bad luck and bring good luck to people. Photo: Ho Phuong |
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| Every time they perform a ritual, the shaman often uses a "ta bu" (a type of panpipe) to play a tune to call the ancestors and gods to bless the homeowner. Photo: Dao Tho |
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| The sharp knife is an image present on all offerings, because this is the "weapon" used by shamans to fight "evil". Photo: Dao Tho |
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| These items will be skillfully arranged by the shaman during the ceremony, creating a unique meaning that only those in the profession can understand. Photo: Dao Tho |
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| The Khmu people hold many worshiping ceremonies such as worshiping the fields, worshiping the dead, worshiping ancestors... However, all have the same purpose of chasing away bad omens, praying for favorable weather, bountiful crops, and peace. Photo: Dao Tho |
| Clip of Khmu shaman performing ceremony. |
