"Ritual and Symbol in New Guinea"

"Ritual and Symbol in New Guinea" explores how Indigenous communities use ceremonies and symbolic objects to express their spiritual beliefs, social identity, and cultural heritage. Rituals, such as dances, offerings, or initiation rites, serve to connect people with ancestors, land, and spirits, reinforcing community bonds and societal roles. Symbols—like masks, artwork, or sacred objects—embody cultural values and narratives, acting as tangible links to intangible beliefs. This interplay between ritual and symbol sustains traditional knowledge, moral codes, and social cohesion in New Guinea's diverse societies.