Lexicons and Its Meaning in the Matigsalug Manobo Rituals

Abstract

Panubad is central in most if not all of the activities of the Matigsalug Manobo people. The people conduct rituals for farming, marriage ceremonies, and burials – the Matigsalug Manobo invoke prayers to their gods for every important community event. This study aims to document the Matigsalug Manobo rituals to preserve and maintain one of the central indigenous knowledge systems and practices of the community. The proponents had video and audio recorded two rituals that were conducted at Sinuda, Kitaotao, Bukidnon. Questionnaires for the focused-group discussion were also utilized in the study to further understand the elements and parts of the ritual. Lastly, two language experts who were members of the Matigsalug Manobo community were then commissioned to transcribe, transliterate, and verify the findings of the study. The study found that the rituals are primarily addressed to the gods and ancestors of the community. They appealed and prayed for their blessing, protection, and guidance throughout the conduct of the activity. Ritual offerings such as chicken and betel nut quid were offered to protect everyone from evil spirits. The panubad that was documented and analyzed in the study showcased an integral belief and practice of the people. The Matigsalug Manobo respected the unseen forces of the world and thus must honor them through the practice of rituals. This is to protect the people of the community and to have a harmonious living with the spirits of the world.