Villagers say favorable weather reflects harmony between humans and the deities governing mountains, forests and water.
For generations, communities such as the Bahnar and Jrai have relied on signs from nature to anticipate rain or sunshine, reading birdsong, wind direction and even the echo of falling ancient trees in the deep forest. These observations, passed down orally, helped farmers avoid danger and protect crops long before modern forecasts.
Village elder Đinh Tớp of Mơ Hra-Đáp village recalls that the sound of a tree collapsing in the forest warned of impending heavy rain. Such trees, believed to fall naturally as seasons shift, guided villagers to turn back for safety during foraging trips.
In these traditions, every element of nature carries a spirit. Deities are believed to oversee forests, mountains, water sources and rice fields, making weather not just a physical reality but a reflection of spiritual balance. Agricultural ceremonies—first sowing, new rice celebrations, granary closing or rain-invoking rituals—center on prayers for “favorable weather, abundant harvests, healthy villagers and peaceful years.”
Village elder Ayo of Piơm village continues these practices in the Bahnar victory celebration, historically held after repelling invaders but now also marking triumphs over nature’s hardships. In his invocation, he calls on mountain, thunder and rain gods to bless crops and livestock with health and abundance.
While modern weather forecasts help communities better prepare for droughts and floods, spiritual traditions still frame how people interpret natural events. Elder Ayo notes that the rituals express a wish for harmony between heaven and earth so rice, cassava and coffee can thrive.
Reverence for nature also guides daily conduct. Ethnic minorities believe that receiving nature’s blessings requires protecting forests and water sources and avoiding indiscriminate exploitation. Drum maker Kpă Rik of Chờ Tung hamlet says felling a tree for a drum always begins with a ritual seeking the forest deity’s approval. He recalls abandoning the cutting of one tree after a turtle emerged from its hollow—a sign the tree was not ready to be used.
Canoe makers in border areas such as Ia O and Ia Khai observe similar rituals, treating each tree as a living being while adhering to state forest-protection rules. These customs strengthen community commitments to safeguard the environment, reduce natural-disaster risks and maintain ecological balance.
Rooted in the aspiration for “favorable rain and wind,” the spiritual culture of the Central Highlands affirms a long-held belief: nature is a companion, a provider and a sacred presence that must be protected. This philosophy continues to guide environmental stewardship as climate challenges grow more complex.