The Priests Revered in the Land of Five Genders
The bissus of South Sulawesi are revered spiritual leaders believed to embody both male and female traits. They play a significant role in local rituals, including a self-stabbing ceremony to demonstrate their mystical powers. This cultural practice highlights the celebration of gender fluidity in the region.
- ▪The bissus are considered a bridge between the earthly and celestial realms.
- ▪They lead rituals before the rice planting season in the village of Segeri.
- ▪The ma'giri ritual showcases their ability to remain unscathed while performing self-stabbing.
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You have a preview view of this article while we are checking your access. When we have confirmed access, the full article content will load.Indonesia DispatchThe Priests Revered in the Land of Five GendersThe bissus of South Sulawesi are considered a link between the earthly and celestial because they are thought to embody both male and female traits.Every year, the bissu in the Indonesian village of Segeri lead a ritual before the rice planting season. This procession, last November, included a sacred plow.Indonesia DispatchThe Priests Revered in the Land of Five GendersThe bissus of South Sulawesi are considered a link between the earthly and celestial because they are thought to embody both male and female traits.Every year, the bissu in the Indonesian village of Segeri lead a ritual…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at NYT — World.
