Abstract

Environmental conservation and protection of sacred places are prerequisites for humanity and are considered topical issues in the world in general and in Ethiopia in particular. The aim of this study was to investigate the origin, function, and conservation values of sacred natural sites among the Guji Oromo of southern Ethiopia. The finding of the study shows that the origin and expansion of sacred sites in Guji land were embedded in an inextricable mutual interaction of the Guji people with God and their environment including plants and animals. The valuable life experiences of indigenous religion and environmental protection passed down to the generations are surviving sacred natural sites and associated sociocultural practices. The rituals like Maqi-Basa, Wodessa-Mura, and Dabbale Qoru are among the ritual practices associated with sacred sites in Guji Society. Sacred sites are home to cultural and biodiversity resources. They are places serving as centers for the prayer for peace, fertility, rain, and order in life in society. Therefore, conservation of the sacred natural sites has an indispensable role for humanity since they have survived sociocultural practices and biodiversity resources exist in society.

Description