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.
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Nats worship was integral to indigenous beliefs in Burma/Myanmar since before the arrival of Buddhism. Burmese-carvings of these mythical or deified humans are seen in Buddhist temples, pagodas, government buildings, and in nat centers throughout Burma. Nats existed in early forms in shamanism and animism beginning when life was associated with agricultural pursuits and the…
Traditional Burmese dance has its roots in folk religion and is a combination of ancient animism, nat worship and a later syncretic blend with Buddhism. Ethnic minorities often perform dances that include warriors , Zawgyi (shaman) and nats wielding swords or holding drums while dressed in full-body costumes. Burmese performances were regulated with limitations on…
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