Nats

Nats are an integral part of Burmese culture, and carvings of these mythical beings were placed in Buddhist temples, pagodas, home shrines, other spiritual structures, and in everyday non-religious and functional-and-utilitarian contexts such as ox-cart ornaments. Nats took various forms including nature spirits of trees, rocks, and rivers, mythological figures, or humans who died unnatural deaths, and worship of them is focused on keeping them out of trouble by propitiating and rewarding them with offerings, as they provide favors only as long as they are rewarded. Burmese nat worship originated in prehistoric times when it was associated with agricultural endeavors and focused on land, sky, and water spirits. Most Burmese villages had a shrine (nat sin) for the nat guarding the village, including forest and mountain guardians and those who protect homes, inhabitants, and agricultural pursuits.