Animism and indigenous beliefs in Indonesia.
Animism, a religion of living creatures and spirits
Animism is not considered an official religion by the Indonesian authorities. However, one should remember that animistic rituals were widely practiced throughout the archipelago before the arrival of Buddhism and Hinduism. People deified nature, believed in spirits and worshipped their ancestors. Indigenous beliefs involved making offerings to trees, rivers, mountains to ensure the protection of spirits.
Traditional ceremony in Papua, a land where animism is still alive
Animistic beliefs have deeply imprinted cultures and social behaviours throughout the archipelago. A number of rituals were integrated into the newly embraced religions. Balinese Hinduism is a good example. To this day, animists beliefs can still be encountered in certain remote areas. A number of tribes perpetuate ancient traditions like the Batak in Sumatra and the Papuan people in Papua. Their old animistic beliefs and rituals were adapted to the new religion brought by Portuguese and Dutch evangelisation
Subscribe our newsletters
Azimuth Adventure Travel Ltd is a Western-run and Indonesia-based adventure travel agency, which was set up in 1999. While we specialize in trekking and volcano climbing tours, we have broadened our range of products to allow all nature and culture lovers to get off the beaten tracks and discover an authentic and multicultural Indonesia. Whether you travel solo, on a tailor-made tour or within a small group of travelers, come and explore Indonesia with us!
Azimuth Adventure Travel Ltd is a founding member of Nomadays, an international network of local travel agencies. Enjoy you trip fully together with Indonesia-based travel specialists!
