Cultural Ecology: The Rituals and Beliefs about Supernatural Related to the Prophecy, Healing of Banpong Wang, Wang Sai Kham Subdistrict, Wang Nuea District, Lampang Province

Abstract

This research aims to 1) study the cultural ecology related to rituals and beliefs about spirits in Ban Pong Wang; 2) examine the changes in rituals and beliefs about spirits concerning divination and healing in the community; and 3) analyze the adaptive patterns of rituals and beliefs about spirits related to divination and healing amid community changes. This is a qualitative study, with data collected through document review, field survey, and interview with 22 key informants, including monks, community leaders, spirit mediums, ritual practitioners, local sages, residents of the community, and staff from the Ban Pong Wang Sub-district Health Promotion Hospital. Data are analyzed using content analysis.

The research findings reveal that 1) the Ban Pong Wang community maintains a close relationship with the ecosystem of the community forest and river, preserving traditional rituals that reflect beliefs intertwined with nature and the supernatural. These rituals not only foster respect for nature and resource conservation but also promote community unity. Additionally, despite the increasing influence of modern medicine, beliefs about spirits remain integral to maintaining the balance between humans and nature. 2) The rituals and beliefs about spirits in Ban Pong Wang have adapted their content and procedures to align with the rapid changes in society and technology. Key factors influencing these adaptations include changes in cultural geography, economy, and society. The integration of traditional and modern medicine continues to ensure effective healthcare that aligns with the community’s beliefs and culture. 3) The adaptive patterns of rituals and beliefs about spirits related to divination and healing in the context of community change can be categorized into three types: (1) physical adaptations, (2) cognitive adaptations, and (3) social relationship adaptations. The body of knowledge from research indicates that culture plays a role in determining the management of natural resources, promoting the uniqueness of communities, fostering unity, and ensuring responsible environmental management.