dab

The Hmong term for spirits and supernatural forces. They are divided into several groups but the two most important ones are the dab nyeg and the dab qus. Other groups of dab are associated with blacksmithing, hunting, and herbalism.

The propitiation of the ordinary spirits is called ua dab and it may be performed by any adult male, usually the head of a household. It is usually for self and the family. Shamanism, or ua neeb, must be for the benefit of others and can only be performed by shamans.

See also vij sub vij sw.

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