The Dayak Selako Shamans Oral Tradition: Intermediary Between People, Culture And Religion
Al-Albab April 12, 2022 Kristianus Kristianus 3 citations
Dayak shamans in Western Kalimantan mediate between people and Makhluk halus (invisible beings) who live in the sky, earth, and water and have human-like needs. These beliefs are shared by Dayak Selako Shamanism and Kalimantan Islam, despite later religious divergence into Christianity and Islam. Malay oral tradition heavily influences Dayak Selako culture; both groups historically share roots. Islamic verses are recited in spiritual communication by both Malay Muslims and Dayak Selako Christians. The shaman serves as an intermediary not only between Dayaks and spirits but also between Dayak, Islam, and Christianity. Mutual oral traditions have created a societal structure based on natural cycles and life patterns.