Legend of the Ancestor of Lhoba Ethnic Group

The Legend of the Ancestor of the Lhoba Ethnic Group (珞巴族始祖传说) is an ancient folk tale that celebrates the origins, virtues, and traditions of the Lhoba people. As one of China’s national intangible cultural heritages, this legend has been passed down orally through generations. The Lhoba people, residing primarily in Tibet, do not have a written language, and so their rich history and traditions have been preserved in these oral stories.

In 2006, this legend was officially recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage, listed under number I-107.

Origins of the Lhoba People

The Birth of the Lhoba Ancestry

The Lhoba people, native to the southeastern region of Tibet, especially Milin County (米林县), Motuo County (墨脱县), and Zayü County (察隅县), trace their roots back to a divine lineage. According to the Bogaer Tribe’s Myth (博嘎尔部落的传说) in Milin County (米林县), the ancestors of the Lhoba were born from the union of Heaven’s Father and Earth’s Mother. Their first son, Jindong (金东), fathered Dongri (东日), who then gave birth to two sons: Rini (日尼) and Ruo (日洛).

• Abadani (阿巴达尼), the ancestor of the Lhoba people, is the key figure in this tale.

• Abadalo (阿巴达洛) is identified as the ancestor of the Tibetan people.

Abadani married Dongni Haiyi (冬尼海依), the daughter of the Sun, and their union led to the creation of several tribes, as well as various creatures and natural elements, including birds, animals, insects, and mythical beings like the Bamboo Woman (竹女) and Rock Woman (岩女). These beings and elements became sacred totems of the Lhoba people, representing their connection to nature and their ancestors.

The Formation of Clans and Tribes

Through frequent tribal conflicts and wars, the Lhoba tribes eventually united, forming stronger alliances and social structures. The legend also details the origins of agriculture, describing early slash-and-burn farming techniques and the migration of the Lhoba people across different regions.

Cultural Traditions of the Lhoba Ethnic Group

Traditional Clothing

Lhoba clothing is distinct from Tibetan attire, heavily influenced by their long history as hunters. Lhoba men (珞巴男人) often wear fur and leather hunting outfits, carrying long knives and animal skin hats. Lhoba women (珞巴女人) wear round-necked short shirts with narrow sleeves, paired with form-fitting tube skirts. Both genders wear intricate jewelry, especially around the waist and neck, and often adorn themselves with finely crafted belts made of bamboo, leather, or wool, decorated with colorful patterns. These belts serve not only as part of the attire but also as holders for tools and decorative items such as small knives and fire-steels.

Food and Cuisine

The Lhoba people’s diet reflects their connection to Tibetan culture. Their traditional foods include roasted meat, dried meat, milk residues, buckwheat cakes, and corn-based meals. One of their most beloved dishes is buckwheat pancakes (荞麦饼), baked on a stone slab and served with chili paste (辣椒糊) and cheese (奶酪). These pancakes are both sweet and savory, offering a flavorful experience. The Lhoba people enjoy spicy food, tobacco, and alcohol as integral parts of their daily life.

Music and Folk Performances

Music plays a significant role in Lhoba culture, especially during festivals, religious ceremonies, and communal events. Folk singers (民歌手) often perform solo, in duets, or in groups, with songs that draw inspiration from ancient myths, legends, political events, history, and family life. These performances reflect the Lhoba people’s colorful lives and help preserve their culture for future generations.

Preservation and Legacy of the Lhoba Ancestor Legend

Oral Tradition and Cultural Significance

The Lhoba Ancestor Legend (珞巴族始祖传说) is vital to the Lhoba people’s identity. It serves as a reflection of their history, social values, and spiritual beliefs. Since the Lhoba people do not have a written language, the stories are passed down orally, keeping the culture alive. The legend offers a glimpse into their ancestral past, detailing their survival, migration, and interactions with nature.

In 2011, the Lhoba Ancestor Legend was officially listed as a national intangible cultural heritage, ensuring its protection and preservation for future generations.

Preservation Efforts

Due to the Lhoba people’s lack of written records, their cultural heritage has been safeguarded through oral storytelling. Efforts have been made to document these traditions and ensure they continue through future generations. Notably, Lindong (林东), a well-known Lhoba elder, was recognized as a representative inheritor of the “Lhoba Ancestor Legend” in 2011. His role in preserving and passing on the legend is crucial to maintaining this cultural treasure.

In 2019, the Cultural and Tourism Bureau of Milin County (西藏林芝市米林县文化和旅游局) was officially recognized as the protection unit for the Lhoba Ancestor Legend, marking an important step in preserving this ancient heritage.

Social Impact and Recognition

Global Influence of the Legend

The Lhoba Ancestor Legend (珞巴族始祖传说) has had a profound influence not only within Tibet but also across the Himalayan region. Its themes of unity, survival, and reverence for nature resonate with neighboring cultures, highlighting the universal appeal of the Lhoba people’s traditions.

The recognition of the Lhoba Legend as an intangible cultural heritage helps foster greater appreciation for indigenous cultures and strengthens cultural ties between different ethnic groups within the region.

Key Cultural Practices and Rituals

The Lhoba people continue to uphold their totemic beliefs (图腾崇拜), which are integral to their cultural identity. These beliefs manifest in various rituals, including sacrifices and shamanistic practices, where they seek the protection of spirits and gods. This reflects the community’s deep spiritual connection to their environment and ancestors.