4. Symbolic Philosophy

• Animistic Connection: Trees embody "Shv" — nature spirits that govern mountains, forests, and water.
• Dongba Cosmology: Wood acts as a bridge linking the Three Realms:
  • Upper Realm (Heaven/Gods)
  • Middle Realm (Humans/Nature)
  • Lower Realm (Spirits/Ancestors)
• Ecological Harmony: Rituals strengthen the Naxi belief in human-nature unity, where trees are seen as kin rather than mere resources.

5. Cultural Preservation

• Dongba priests (referred to as "Dongbas") hand-carve tablets using ancient techniques. The UNESCO-recognized Dongba script preserves ritual knowledge.
• Modern Threats: Deforestation and the declining number of master Dongba practitioners put these traditions at risk.

Glossary of Key Terms