Draft:Pfütsana Religion/2
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| Pfütsana | |
|---|---|
 An Angami Naga tribe member during a traditional festival | |
| Scripture | Oral traditions |
| Region | Nagaland, India |
The Pfutsana is an indigenous religion practiced by the Angami Naga people, primarily in the Nagaland region of India. The religion is centered on animism, ancestor worship, and a profound connection to nature and the land. Rituals and traditions play an essential role in maintaining spiritual and social harmony within the Angami Naga community.
Pfutsana does not have a formal scripture; instead, its teachings and beliefs are passed down orally through stories, songs, and rituals. The religion emphasizes the veneration of spirits and ancestors, believing in their constant presence and influence over the physical world. The Angami Naga people celebrate various festivals and ceremonies dedicated to these spirits and deities, with music, dance, and sacrifices often being part of the celebrations.
Etymology
[edit]The term Pfütsana is derived from the Angami language, where "Pfü" translates to "life" or "spirit," and "Tsana" refers to "practice" or "path." This encapsulates the belief system's focus on spiritual and natural harmony.
Notes on Categorization
[edit]| Year | Category | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1901 | Animism | Pfütsana Religion adherents were classified under "Animism" in this census. |
| 1951 | Tribal Religions | This census grouped Pfütsana Religion adherents under "Tribal Religions," reflecting an updated classification system. |
| 1961 | Tribal Religions | The classification remained the same as in 1951, with "Tribal Religions" being the assigned category. |
| 1971 | Other Religions and Persuasions | A new category, "Other Religions and Persuasions," was introduced, and Pfütsana Religion adherents were grouped under it. |
| 1981 | Other Religions and Persuasions | Continuation of the 1971 classification under "Other Religions and Persuasions." |
| 1991 | Other Religions and Persuasions | No changes were made to the classification from the previous two decades. |
| 2001 | Other Religions and Persuasions | Pfütsana adherents continued to be categorized under "Other Religions and Persuasions." |
| 2011 | Other Religions and Persuasions | The most recent census maintained this classification. |
Beliefs and Practices
[edit]Supreme Being
[edit]Pfütsana centers around belief in a supreme creator deity known as Ukepenyi, considered the architect of the universe. However, this deity is not directly worshipped; followers instead focus on intermediary spirits that govern natural and social phenomena.[1]
Nature Worship
[edit]Nature holds a sacred place in Pfütsana. Spirits known as Terhü are believed to inhabit natural elements such as rivers, mountains, trees, and animals, serving as guardians of the environment. Specific rituals are performed to honor these spirits and maintain balance with nature.[2]
Ancestral Veneration
[edit]Ancestral spirits play a pivotal role in Pfütsana. The Angami Naga believe their ancestors protect and guide them. Regular offerings and rituals are conducted to honor these spirits and seek their blessings for prosperity and protection.[1]
Community Rituals
[edit]Pfütsana rituals are closely tied to the agricultural cycle and community life. Significant festivals include:
- Sekrenyi Festival: Celebrated in February, this purification festival marks the arrival of spring and aims to cleanse the body and soul.[1]
- Thekranyi Festival: A harvest celebration expressing gratitude to the spirits for their blessings.[2]
Moral Code
[edit]The religion emphasizes communal harmony, honesty, respect for nature, and hard work. The concept of Kikrü ("communal well-being") forms the foundation of ethical living in Pfütsana.[2]
Sacred Spaces
[edit]Certain locations, such as forests, rivers, and hills, are considered sacred in Pfütsana. These spaces are believed to house powerful spirits and often serve as venues for significant rituals and festivals.[1]
Decline and Revival
[edit]During the 19th century, the spread of Christianity in Nagaland led to a decline in the practice of Pfütsana, as many Angami Nagas converted to Christianity. However, recent years have seen a revival movement aimed at preserving the traditional beliefs and practices as a critical part of Angami identity.[1]
Modern Relevance
[edit]While practiced by a minority within the Angami Naga tribe today, Pfütsana remains a symbol of cultural pride. Efforts are being made to document its rituals and beliefs, ensuring its survival for future generations.[2]
References
[edit][3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10] [11] [12]
- ^ a b c d e Mills, J.P. The Angami Nagas (1922). London: Oxford University Press.
- ^ a b c d Hutton, J.H. The Angami Nagas: With Some Notes on Neighboring Tribes (1921). London: Macmillan.
- ^ Mills, J.P. (1922). The Angami Nagas. London: Oxford University Press.
- ^ Hutton, J.H. (1921). The Angami Nagas: With Some Notes on Neighboring Tribes. London: Macmillan.
- ^ Sharma, P. (2014). Naga Religion: A Study of the Angami. Journal of Indigenous Studies, 5(3), 223-240.
- ^ Singh, R. (2007). Naga Ethnography: Understanding the Angami Tribe. New Delhi: National Publishing House.
- ^ Yaden, A. (2001). Angami Naga Culture: A Historical Perspective. Nagaland University Press.
- ^ Angami Tribe of Nagaland: Culture and Beliefs. (2020). Journal of Tribal Cultures, 3(1), 101-115.
- ^ Gassah, M. (2009). The Social Organization of the Angami Nagas. Delhi: Heritage Press.
- ^ Ram, S. (2012). A Cultural History of the Angami Naga People. Kohima: Nagaland State Press.
- ^ Longkumer, Z. (2013). Traditional Beliefs of the Angami Nagas. Journal of Naga Studies, 7(2), 45-60.
- ^ Angami Naga: A Unique Heritage. (2005). The Naga Observer, 8(4), 152-157.
See also
[edit]