In a unique and deeply rooted tradition, a community in eastern Ethiopia recently buried twelve lightning survivors up to their necks and poured milk on them to fulfill a local ritual. This ritual, observed in the Oromia region, is believed to restore the health of those struck by lightning. The incident, reported by the BBC, occurred in the town of Melka Bello.
The Lightning Incident
On a seemingly ordinary day, lightning struck in Melka Bello, impacting a group of individuals gathered inside a house. One of the survivors, Nesro Abdi, recounted the event: “It was not heavy rain as such. The lightning struck a sheep at the door while we were inside a house. All of us fell down. Many of us were shaking.”
Following the strike, the community sprang into action. Hearing the survivors’ screams, other locals rushed to help. Nesro described their response: “They brought milk and poured it on us. They dug up the ground and buried our bodies below our necks.”
The Ritual’s Cultural Significance
The practice of burying lightning survivors in soil and pouring milk on them is a traditional healing ritual in Ethiopia’s Oromia region. This custom is based on the belief that such actions will help restore the survivors’ health. The ritual involves either making the survivors drink milk or pouring milk over them while they are buried up to their necks.
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Lightning is regarded as a divine act in this region, and the ritual is also seen as a way to avoid angering the Almighty. People celebrate when lightning strikes to show reverence and avoid invoking divine wrath. Nesro Abdi, who could not move his legs immediately after the strike, reported significant improvement after the ritual: “As I couldn’t move my legs before, people had to carry me and put me in the soil. But when we got out of the soil, everyone is feeling better. I am moving well now.”
The Scientific Perspective
Despite the deep cultural roots and the perceived effectiveness of the ritual, scientific experts urge caution. Haftu Birhane, an environmental physics researcher at Haramaya University, explained to the BBC that these rituals lack scientific validation. Birhane emphasized the importance of seeking medical treatment for lightning strike survivors: “What science advises is to take [survivors] to the nearest health facilities.”
Lightning strikes can cause severe injuries, including burns, nervous system damage, and cardiac issues, which require professional medical attention. While the traditional ritual may provide psychological comfort and a sense of community support, it is crucial to ensure that survivors receive appropriate medical care to address any serious injuries.
Balancing Tradition and Modern Medicine
The incident in Melka Bello highlights the intersection of ancient traditions and modern medical science. While the cultural practice of burying lightning survivors reflects a rich heritage and communal solidarity, it is essential to integrate these traditions with contemporary medical advice to ensure the best outcomes for survivors.
As Ethiopia continues to navigate its rich cultural traditions and modern advancements, communities like Melka Bello serve as a reminder of the importance of respecting and preserving cultural practices while also embracing the benefits of modern healthcare.
In conclusion, the burial ritual for lightning survivors in Ethiopia’s Oromia region is a fascinating example of how traditional beliefs and practices continue to play a significant role in contemporary society. While these rituals offer cultural and psychological benefits, it is vital to combine them with modern medical treatments to ensure the health and well-being of lightning strike survivors.
