Spiritual
/ˈspɪrɪtʃʊəl,ˈspɪrɪtjʊəl/
adjective
1. relating to or affecting the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things.
2. relating to religion or religious belief.
Rice bears a strong spiritual connection in Southeast Asia. From Dewi Sri, Mbok Sri (both Javanese), Nyi Pohaci Sanghiang Sri (Sundanese), Mae Phosop (Thailand), Nang Khosop (Laos), Semangat Padi (Malaysia) to Bambarayon [Padi spirits] (Kadazandusun, Sarawak, Malaysia) and other manifestations of rice spirits across Southeast Asian communities, the rice deity usually exists either in the form of a female goddess or spiritual entity. Apart from that, rice also possesses a spiritual connection materially as it is commonly used in offerings and rituals. The SPIRITUAL connection between rice and the divine extends beyond the worship and material realms.
Wiwitan ritual at Sanga Rojelele Festival 2019 at Klaten, Indonesia. Video by Chu Hao Pei
The spiritual holds a special place among many in Southeast Asia. Prior to the arrival of Hinduism, Buddhism and later, Islam and Christianity, Southeast Asia is home to various indigenous faiths. Despite some revolutionary attempts to convolute spiritual beliefs, the spiritual connections remain indoctrinated among the followers. These video abstracts exemplify how various vernacular rituals with rice are performed to pay respect while remaining connected to the SPIRITUAL.
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