Agriculture-related Beliefs of the Tai Ethnic Group in Cao Bang Province

Abstract

The Tai people in Cao Bang province have a traditional belief in animism that intertwines with their agrarian lives. The Tai believe that all grains of paddy, cereals and other cultivated crops as well as domestic animals have souls. These souls are the main deciding factors for the success and growth of cultivated crops and livestock, and have a strong influence over the production of labour. The Tai therefore are careful to maintain their agriculture-related ritual ceremonies and festivals. These include opening the fields, Nàng Hải, calling the souls of cows and buffaloes, praying for rain, and performing the new rice festival, etc. The elaborate animistic patterns of Tai agrarian life maintain community solidarity.