Trees Are Gods: The Sanctification of Forests in the Traditional Worldview of the Co Tu People in Vietnam

Abstract

Purpose. Co Tu is one of the ethnic minorities among the 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam that still boldly preserve their cultural values. They live in the mountainous areas of the Annamite Range, Vietnam where they depend on the forest for their livelihood. The people attach great importance to trees and forests. In their traditional worldview, trees are not merely immovable objects but have hidden souls. Trees are called abhui whose souls mainly inhabit the forest. Those residing in any tree have the same characteristics as that tree. Tree souls can protect people but can also harm them. By using primary and secondary documents obtained during the years 2009–2020, focusing on 2017–2019; emic, etic, and direct field trip methods as the unstructured in-depth interview, semi-structured interview, and group discussions, we want to approach the ethnic minority’s way of thinking and learn about the relationship between the ethnic group and the plant world.Results. Trees have been personified as gods, and from that respect, the people have also sanctified forests and created customary law to protect forests, i.e., tree souls, the sacredness of forests.Conclusion. In promoting relationships with nature, protecting and preserving the environment, these indigenous practices are a very positive form that should be encouraged.