The Kammu Creation Myth: Variations of the Flood Story
Journal name: Acta Orientalia
Original article title: The flood
ACTA ORIENTALIA is a journal focused on the study of Oriental languages, history, archaeology, and religions from ancient times to the present. The journal includes articles reviewed by a senior scholar in the relevant field.
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Kristina Lindell
Acta Orientalia:
(Founded in 1922 and published annually)
Full text available for: The flood
Year: 1957 | Doi: 10.5617/ao.5315
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The narrative of the Flood, as expressed in three distinct Kammu versions, illustrates a shared cultural theme among Southeast Asian peoples concerning the rebirth of the world following a catastrophic flood. These stories recount the survival of a brother and sister, who, through a mixture of prophesy and personal agency, become the progenitors of humanity. This paper explores various motifs present in the Kammu tales, providing insights into themes of creation, incest, and the roles of animals and nature in human affairs.
The Role of the Malcoha Cuckoo in Incestuous Reproduction
A critical moment in the Kammu Flood narrative arises when the malcoha cuckoo encourages the brother-sister duo to embrace and have children despite their taboo relationship. The cuckoo's cooing—“Tok kɔɔk kɔɔk, brother and sister, embrace one another”—serves as a powerful symbol, suggesting that cosmic forces compel individuals to fulfill roles essential for the continuity of life. The eventual union of the two survivors, although fraught with implications of incest, is framed as a necessary act following the destruction of their world, emphasizing themes of survival and rebirth.
The Emergence of Rǝmeet and Language
In these stories, the young couple eventually gives birth to a gourd, which contains the first humans, the Rǝmeet. Upon their emergence, the narrative portrays humanity as initially lacking language and knowledge. This leads to a comedic yet poignant moment where the breaking of a tree trunk becomes a catalyst for the awakening of speech, showcasing how human communication develops from shared experiences of hardship and laughter. The Rǝmeet, who emerge first, are portrayed with darker skin, symbolizing inherited traits and social hierarchies that emerge post-catastrophe.
Cultural Learning and Societal Structures
The narratives further illustrate the processes through which different ethnic groups acquire literacy and distinctive cultural practices. As various groups come out from the gourd, they attempt to learn writing and reading from one another, but conflicts arise due to misinterpretations and drunkenness, leading to the divergence of languages and cultures. This establishment of social differences serves to explain the origins of cultural disparities and the hierarchical placement of the Kammu relative to other groups, illuminating the stories' commentary on social roles and relationships among neighboring tribes.
Inequalities and Kammu Identity
The stories detail the inequalities that arise through the division of resources among the newly emerged peoples, illustrating a social commentary on Kammu identity. As the Kammu are portrayed as elder brothers who receive the less desirable portions of crops and animals, the narrative creates a framework for understanding their perceived societal inferiority and current conditions. The tale culminates in a modern context where the Kammu reflect on their societal roles and resource dependencies in relation to the Lao and other groups, reinforcing their cultural narrative of seeking dignity despite perceived disadvantages.
Conclusion
The three Kammu versions of the Flood reveal rich cultural themes related to creation, survival, and societal dynamics post-catastrophe. Through characters, symbolism (such as the malcoha cuckoo), and narratives intertwined with humor and wisdom, these stories not only describe the Kammu’s origins but also comment on their contemporary social realities. By preserving these tales, the Kammu pay homage to their heritage while navigating their complex identity in a world that continues to evolve. This continuity of storytelling ensures that the significance and lessons of their past remain alive for future generations.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main theme of the Kammu Flood story?
The story centers on a catastrophic flood that wipes out humanity, leading to incestuous repopulation by the only two survivors, a brother and sister, who are persuaded to marry by a malcoha cuckoo.
What role does the bamboo rat play in the story?
The bamboo rat warns the brother and sister about the impending flood, instructing them to create a drum to stay safe from the rising waters.
How do the brother and sister survive the flood?
They construct a drum, enter it, and seal it with wax to float safely during the flood until the waters recede.
What happens after the flood recedes in the story?
Once the floodwaters recede, the brother and sister search for partners, eventually marrying each other due to the absence of other survivors.
What transformation occurs with the gourd in the story?
The couple's long-awaited child is born as a gourd, which eventually gives birth to various ethnic groups after they manage to open it.
How do different ethnic groups emerge from the gourd?
Various groups emerge sequentially from the gourd, starting with the Rǝmeet, and they initially lack language until a significant event allows them to start speaking.
What cultural insights does this story provide?
The tale reflects themes of creation, kinship, cultural inferiority, and social dynamics, illustrating the Kammu people's historical narratives and beliefs.
Glossary definitions and references:
Oriental and Historical glossary list for “The Kammu Creation Myth: Variations of the Flood Story”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of History, Linguistics, Religion, Philosophy, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism etc.
1) Drum:
The drum represents survival in the Kammu flood narrative, serving as a vessel that protects the brother and sister from the deluge. It is a metaphorical representation of life, encapsulating the concept of safety, communal creation, and the eventual continuation of existence post-catastrophe, emphasizing resilience against natural forces.
2) Rice (Rce):
Rice symbolizes sustenance and agricultural knowledge in Kammu folklore. The Kammu people's struggle to secure rice illustrates their connection to the land and agrarian society. The act of acquiring rice is a pivotal moment in their story, highlighting the importance of agriculture for survival, identity, and cultural practices.
3) Elephant:
In the narratives, elephants represent strength and divide among peoples. When the Kammu are assigned the mother elephant while others receive the baby, it signifies themes of loss and inequality. The elephant's journey to reunite with its child reflects the notions of familial bonds and the consequences of division.
4) Leaf (Leaves):
Leaves, particularly from paddy plants, serve multiple symbolic roles in the flood stories. They signify the beginnings of agriculture and sustenance. The action of nipping the leaves in their early attempts to cultivate hints at innovation and the origins of farming practices that sustain the community.
5) Bird:
The bird, specifically the malcoha cuckoo, plays a vital role in prompting the incestuous relationship between the brother and sister. Its cooing serves as a divine intervention, emphasizing themes of fate and necessity. This character embodies the connection to nature and the realization of new beginnings after destruction.
6) Tai:
The Thai represent one of the neighboring ethnic groups in the Kammu narrative. Their interactions underscore the cultural dynamics and hierarchies present among different peoples. The competition for knowledge and resources illustrates the complex relationships that influence social structures and cultural exchanges in the region.
7) Mountain:
Mountains represent the natural landscape through which the characters navigate their post-flood world. They symbolize boundaries, journeys, and the struggle to find fertile land or partners for repopulation. Mountains serve as metaphors for challenges that one must overcome to achieve stability and prosperity.
8) Village:
The concept of a village represents community in Kammu tradition. The catastrophic flood annihilates the village, leaving only the brother and sister as survivors. The recollection of the village serves to remind the Kammu of their roots, community ties, and the efforts required to rebuild society after devastation.
9) Boat:
Boats signify adaptation and survival strategies during the flood. In the stories, the context of floating boats suggests the idea of mobility, resilience, and the necessity for escape from dangers. They represent the communal effort to flee the waters as well as the eventual return to normalcy.
10) Language:
Language symbolizes knowledge and communication among people in the stories. In the aftermath of the flood, the characters initially lack the ability to speak, embodying humanity's primal state. The development of language illustrates the transition from isolation to community interaction and the essence of cultural identity.
11) House:
The house reflects the idea of safety and domestic space in the Kammu world after the flood. It denotes the foundation of family, community, and civilization, where futures are built. The construction of houses follows the flood, signifying rebirth and the desire for stability in life.
12) Paddy:
Paddy refers to the rice that grows in fields and represents agriculture's significance in Kammu culture. The characters’ efforts in cultivating paddy underline their dependence on the land, and the nurturing of paddy leads to food security, illustrating agricultural innovation as key to survival and cultural practices.
13) Stone:
Stone represents durability and the foundation of structures in the Kammu narratives. Its mention in the context of casting cement highlights modern advancements in construction. Stone signifies permanence in a transforming world where the Kammu must adapt to change while holding onto enduring traditions.
14) Iron:
Iron signifies tools, strength, and the duality of creation and destruction. In the narrative, the use of a heated iron rod to pierce the gourd reflects both the act of discovery and the consequences it brings about, leading to the emergence of new tribes while also highlighting indigenous technologies.
15) Animal:
Animals feature prominently as symbols of companionship and the natural order in the stories. Their interactions with humans emphasize reliance on wildlife for food and survival. They serve as assistants and adversaries, critical to illustrating the balance between human endeavors and the natural environment.
16) Tree:
Trees symbolize nature’s resilience and the interconnectedness of life after the flood. They provide a visual backdrop for the story, suggesting growth and the potential for renewal. Their presence offers a contrast to human struggle and serves as a reminder of the natural world's cyclical essence.
17) Buffalo (Buffaloes):
The buffalo represents labor and utility in Kammu society. Used for agriculture and transportation, its sacrifice in the narratives illustrates cultural practices regarding resource use and community reliance. The animal's role highlights both sustenance and loss, integral to understanding societal dynamics post-catastrophe.
18) Deluge:
The deluge signifies overwhelming adversity and transformation in Kammu stories. It is a catastrophic event, leading to destruction, loss, and eventual rebirth. The flood is a catalyst for change, prompting survival actions among characters and shaping their identities in the face of communal disaster.
19) Needle:
The needle symbolizes precision, care, and the concept of containment in the narratives. Its purpose to prick holes in the drum allows the characters to peek into the world, reflecting the tension between safety and curiosity. This act is critical in highlighting their cautious navigation of change.
20) Cuckoo:
The cuckoo, particularly the malcoha, is a significant figure in invoking acts of incest between the central characters. Its rhythmic cooing serves as a mystical prompt, underscoring themes of fate and necessity intertwined with natural phenomena, portraying how nature affects human choices and relationships.
21) Indian:
Indians represent another ethnic group within the broader narrative, paralleling the Kammu's story. Their mention underscores themes of cultural diversity, interconnectedness, and the intertwining of histories across Asia. The various groups symbolize the complexity of identities shaped by geography and societal interactions.
22) Cement:
Cement symbolizes modernization and the evolution of building practices. The mention in the stories reflects an adaptation to new materials and methods, indicating progress while retaining traditional stories. Cement embodies the strength of construction and continuity amidst shifting cultural narratives.
23) Sugar:
Sugar signifies both a resource and a cultural practice in the Kammu society. Its division and the lessons learned from cultivating sugar cane reflect the narrative's emphasis on material wealth, community sharing, and traditional agricultural practices as foundations of prosperity and social order.
24) Child (Children):
Children symbolize the hope for future generations in Kammu tradition. Their emergence from the brother-sister union embodies continuity and renewal, reflecting society’s cyclical nature. The narratives focus on the importance of education, guidance, and nurturing required to ensure cultural survival and prosperity.
25) Sound:
Sound embodies communication and connectivity among people in the tales. The emergence of speech following moments of chaos emphasizes the relationship between language and social existence. The significance of sounds serves as a bridge between being disconnected and forming a cohesive community.
26) Dead:
Dead symbolizes loss and the consequences of disaster in the Kammu narratives. The stark reality of encountering a lifeless landscape after the deluge illustrates existential themes of solitude and the profound impact of calamities on individuals and families, embodying the fragility of life.
27) Knowledge:
Knowledge reflects the value of learning and cultural transmission following the catastrophic events. In the context of the stories, the gradual acquisition of knowledge—from language to agricultural practices—illustrates the significance of wisdom and tradition in rebuilding civilization and sustaining cultural heritage.
28) Dialect:
Dialect signifies linguistic diversity and cultural identity among the Kammu people. The mention of different dialects underscores the narrative's roots in oral traditions, emphasizing the significance of language in shaping community bonds and cultural distinctions, reflecting the richness of their storytelling heritage.
29) Valley:
Valley represents geographical features that shape the environment and influence the narratives. Valleys serve as locations for human activities and interactions, creating spaces for community life and the dynamics of survival in a rapidly changing world, both during and after the flood.
30) Birth:
Birth signifies beginnings and the cyclical nature of life in the narratives. The act of giving birth, particularly to unusual forms like gourds, highlights themes of transformation and the inherent mysteries of creation following calamity. Birth is a central motif in the discourse of existence and continuity.
31) River:
River represents the flow of life, communication, and resource access in Kammu folklore. It symbolizes movement and change, a pathway through which characters navigate their world. The river’s presence in the stories suggests the fluidity of time and relationships within diverse cultural landscapes.
32) Woman (Women):
Woman symbolizes fertility, nurturing, and the continuation of life in Kammu lore. The role of the woman, particularly as a mother and spouse, underscores the matriarchal aspect of Kammu society, emphasizing themes of motherhood, partnership, and their critical role in community rebuilding.
33) Food:
Food signifies sustenance and cultural identity in Kammu tradition. The various references to food production underscore the community's reliance on agriculture and the act of sharing meals as a form of bonding. Meals represent the social fabric that weaves together communal relationships and survival.
34) Fire:
Fire represents transformation and the dual nature of creation and destruction in the narratives. The use of fire in cooking and forging signifies the acquisition of skills and knowledge necessary for survival. Fire is a potent symbol, illustrating how humanity shapes its environment for sustenance and security.
35) Young men (Young man):
The young man embodies the potential for growth, responsibility, and leadership in Kammu culture. His actions—seeking a wife and cultivating land—highlight the themes of agency and the transformative journey towards adulthood, emphasizing the importance of young men in the narrative of community rebuilding.
36) Young boy:
The young boy represents innocence, curiosity, and the transition from childhood to adulthood. His activities in searching for resources and heeding the bamboo rat's warning illustrate themes of exploration, growth, and the foundational experiences shaping identity within Kammu society after disaster.
37) Agriculture:
Agriculture signifies sustenance, stability, and cultural identity in Kammu life. The narratives vividly portray the struggle to cultivate food following the flood. The act of farming symbolizes resilience and the importance of agricultural practices in establishing community ties, enhancing social cohesion, and ensuring survival.
38) Discussion:
Discussion represents the sharing of ideas and experiences crucial for cultural transmission. In the narrative, discussions among the storytellers regarding their stories emphasize the collective knowledge and communal traditions that shape their identity, highlighting the need for preserving oral histories in cultural contexts.
39) Literature:
Literature signifies the oral traditions and storytelling practices that convey Kammu cultural values. The narratives preserve history, morality, and identity, serving as a connection to the past. The presence of diverse stories reflects the richness of their cultural heritage and the importance of storytelling in society.
40) Marriage:
Marriage symbolizes unity, partnership, and the continuation of lineage in Kammu stories. The taboo of incestuous marriage reflects the complexities of cultural norms and societal structure following the flood. Marriage emerges as a critical theme in rebuilding communities and ensuring the survival of traditions.
41) Pregnant:
Pregnant symbolizes fertility and the potential for new beginnings in Kammu folklore. The extended pregnancy of the woman highlights the themes of anticipation, patience, and the natural rhythms of life, reflecting the duality of joy and frustration inherent in the reproduction process that shapes communities.
42) Splinter:
Splinter signifies vulnerability and the potential for harm in Kammu narratives. The splinter that injures the lord while working with stone reflects the risks associated with progress and change. It symbolizes the fragility of authority and the consequences of endeavors that seek to innovate or adapt.
43) Cooking:
Cooking symbolizes the nurturing aspect of Kammu culture, representing the transformation of raw ingredients into sustenance. It emphasizes the importance of communal meals, tradition, and the role of women in food preparation, illustrating how cooking bonds the community and preserves cultural practices over time.
44) Hollow:
Hollow signifies emptiness and potential within the Kammu narratives. The idea of hollow objects, such as the drum and gourd, encapsulates themes of waiting and transformation. It represents spaces of possibility where new life, knowledge, and connections can emerge, framing the cycle of rebirth.
45) Mortar:
Mortar symbolizes craftsmanship and the integration of modern techniques into Kammu construction. The mention within narratives reflects a broader cultural evolution, emphasizing the transition from traditional to contemporary practices, underlining the ongoing adaptability of the Kammu people to an ever-changing world.
46) Sex (Sexual):
Sexual denotes the intimate relationships central to the narratives, particularly incest between the brother and sister. This theme illustrates cultural perspectives on relationships, continuity, and the complexities of reproduction in rebuilding society, emphasizing the intertwining of societal norms with personal desires and fates.
47) Fruit:
Fruit symbolizes nourishment and the bounty of nature in Kammu stories. The references to various fruits highlight the relationship between humans and their environment, showcasing the significance of natural resources in shaping livelihoods and the cultural practices associated with harvesting and sharing produce among communities.
48) Earth:
Earth represents the foundation of life and cultural identity in Kammu narratives. The barren landscape after the flood symbolizes loss yet also the potential for renewal. It signifies the essential connection between people and land, emphasizing the themes of rebirth and the nurturing role of the earth in sustaining communities.
49) Sleeping (Sleep):
Sleep symbolizes rest and the temporary retreat from challenges in the Kammu flood stories. The characters' moments of sleep or dormancy evoke states of vulnerability, yet also the potential for rejuvenation and future growth. Sleep is integral to the cycle of life depicted in these narratives.
50) Tabu:
Tabu signifies the cultural restrictions surrounding certain practices, particularly the incestuous relationship between the siblings. It highlights societal norms and moral codes that shape personal choices. The presence of taboos underscores the complexities of cultural identity and the negotiations individuals face within their communities.
51) Crop:
Crop refers to cultivated plants that are vital for sustenance and economic survival. The focus on crop cultivation highlights the importance of agriculture in the post-flood rebuilding efforts. It signifies resilience, adaptability, and the community's efforts to secure food sources essential for survival.
52) Dumb:
Dumb signifies a profound lack of communication before language is established in Kammu narratives. This state underscores the importance of knowledge and connection in community building. The transition from silence to speech reflects humanity's evolution, illustrating the fundamental role of communication in societal development.
53) Little finger:
Little finger symbolizes the subtle nuances of human interaction and personal agency inherent in the narratives. The specific mention might refer to dexterity, delicate tasks, or cultural gestures, emphasizing the intricacies involved in relationships, agriculture, and the rituals that permeate everyday life.
54) Young couple:
Young couple symbolizes the new beginnings and the embodiment of continuity in the Kammu folklore. Their journey throughout the flood narratives illustrates emerging hopes, struggles, and the foundational partnerships required for the survival and repopulation of society post-catastrophe.
55) Death rite:
Death rite embodies cultural practices surrounding loss and memorialization in the Kammu tradition. The acknowledgment of death following the flood underscores life's transience and the importance of rituals in maintaining connections to the deceased, signifying the profound grieving processes that influence community cohesion.
56) Repopulation:
Repopulation symbolizes renewal and hope following calamity in Kammu narratives. The emergence of new individuals from the brother-sister union emphasizes the cycles of life and the importance of rebirth after disaster. This theme underlines community resilience and the inherent struggle for continuity in cultural identity.
57) Isolation:
Isolation signifies the profound loneliness experienced after the flood, representing the stark transition from a vibrant community to desolation. This state reinforces the significance of relationships and social structures that emerge from shared experiences and highlights humanity's intrinsic need for connection and belonging.
58) Creation:
Creation signifies the power of rebirth and the emergence of life following a calamity. The narratives illustrate that alongside destruction, new life arises, emphasizing themes of transformation, continuity, and the cyclical nature of existence that drives the Kammu stories amid overwhelming adversity.
59) Alphabet:
Alphabet represents the formalization of communication and knowledge in Kammu culture. The discussions surrounding writing underline the evolution of language from spoken to written forms, highlighting the significance of literacy in societal development and the transmission of cultural identity among diverse peoples.
60) Calamity:
Calamity signifies devastating events that disrupt life and challenge survival. The flood represents a catastrophic calamity that alters the Kammu way of life, prompting adaptation and resilience. The narratives emphasize overcoming adversities and the capacity to rebuild amidst chaos, underscoring themes of endurance and human spirit.
61) Charcoal:
Charcoal signifies the remnants of transformation and experience in the narratives. Its association with the emergence of different peoples represents how past experiences shape identities. Charcoal highlights the implications of change, the legacy of survival, and how the journeys of characters continue to influence future generations.
62) Ultimate:
Ultimate signifies the defining moments of choice and consequence in the narratives. It suggests the culmination of experiences that lead to profound changes, where critical decisions impact the community's trajectory. The notion of the ultimate serves to frame the stories as not only recounting events but also probing deeper meanings.
63) Feeling:
Feeling symbolizes the emotional responses evoked throughout the narratives. The characters' internal experiences reflect the depth of human sentiments associated with survival, loss, and rebirth. Acknowledging feelings serves as a bridge to understanding community dynamics, personal struggles, and the shared humanity that binds individuals together.
64) Opinion:
Opinion signifies the subjective interpretations of experiences within the Kammu community. Discussions around narratives reflect varying perspectives that shape cultural understanding. The exchange of opinions among storytellers serves as a means to preserve and adapt cultural practices, ensuring the continuity of traditions in ever-evolving societal contexts.
65) Family:
Family embodies the core unit of social structure within Kammu culture. The narratives revolve around familial ties as a means of identity, continuity, and survival. The experiences of family in the context of loss and rebuilding emphasize the importance of relationships in sustaining cultural legacy and community cohesion.
66) Ceylon:
Ceylon symbolizes cultural cross-pollination and the interconnectedness of folklore across regions. Mention of Ceylon reflects the broader South Asian contexts that influence Kammu stories. The cultural narratives reveal the historical interactions and shared themes present across different yet interconnected communities throughout Asia.
67) Nature:
Nature signifies the omnipresent force that shapes Kammu life and culture. It serves as both a source of sustenance and a powerful adversary, visually illustrated through the flood. The stories show the intricate relationships between humans and nature, highlighting the themes of respect, adaptation, and coexistence.
68) Silver:
Silver symbolizes material wealth and social status within Kammu narratives. Its reference alongside gold reflects the disparities among different ethnic groups in cultural lore. The dynamics surrounding ownership and value attached to silver highlight themes of economic struggle, identity, and the societal layers leading to cultural interactions.
69) Summer:
Summer signifies a season of growth and potential abundance in Kammu agriculture. Its mention in stories emphasizes themes of agricultural cycles, productivity, and the hope for bountiful harvests. The relationship between seasons and their influence on the livelihoods depicts the intertwining of nature and cultural practices.
70) Cotton:
Cotton symbolizes craftsmanship and resourcefulness in Kammu culture. Its use in fabric production highlights the importance of traditional artisan skills. Exploring cotton's role illustrates the significance of weaving and textiles in cultural expressions, further emphasizing the deep connections humans maintain with their material culture.
71) Colour (Color):
Colour symbolizes identity, cultural distinction, and attributes related to social status within Kammu narratives. The differences in skin colour mentioned in the stories reflect underlying societal hierarchies, revealing human perceptions about ethnicity and social value, fostering a discourse on differences shaped by geographical and cultural contexts.
72) Finger:
Finger represents the minutiae of daily life and detail in Kammu tradition. Specific references to the actions involving fingers reflect the nature of intimate interactions within personal and communal realms. The finger emphasizes the delicate balance of relationships, craftsmanship, and the subtleties that join people together.
73) India:
India symbolizes cultural richness and diversity, providing genealogical and historical links in Kammu narratives. References to Indian people reflect the intricate tapestry of ethnic identities across the region, showcasing interconnected histories that shape the Kammu community's understanding of themselves in relation to others.
74) Death:
Death signifies the inevitable conclusion of life and its societal implications in Kammu culture. The acknowledgment of death in the aftermath of the flood resonates deeply, framing themes of loss that prompt reflection on mortality. It emphasizes the importance of rituals in managing collective grief and moving forward.
75) Heart:
Heart symbolizes the emotional weight of experiences depicted in Kammu folklore. It represents love, loss, resilience, and the core of human connection. The heart's presence evokes feelings that underline the emotional journeys within narratives, reflecting the deepest sentiments attached to survival and community.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 93]