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Dogon, Mali is an ethnic community residing in the administrative areas of Bandiagara and Douentza in Mali, West Africa. Among these two regions the Dogon population is mostly seen around the Cliffs of Bandiagara close to Timbuktu. Dogon in Mali forms the largest ethnic group.
Overview of Dogon Tribe in Mali
The Dogon people are also known as Habe, which means “stranger” or “pagan”. A brief history suggests that the Dogon tribe were the descendants of ancient Egyptians. The ancestors of Dogon tribe of Mali migrated to this area during the 10th century. The ancestors were four brothers, namely Dyon, Ono, Arou and Domno. Inhabitants of other regions established kingship with one of these four brothers.
Majority of the Dogon tribe are cultivators. The main cultivating crops are millet, sorghum, rice, onions, beans, tobacco and sorrel. The Dogons also rear cattle, goats, sheep, and poultry. Apart from this the Dogon people of Mali engage in hunting and fishing as occupations. The Dogons are excellent hunters by nature. Apart from being an occupation, hunting is an adventure sports among the males of the tribe.
Dogons are also famous for their artistry, dancing and passion for music. Mask carving is a traditional craft among the Dogons. Their mask making tradition goes back 1000 years.
Religion of Dogon Tribe in Mali
Majority of the Dogon tribe follow the Islamic religion and are very orthodox in their beliefs. The religious beliefs of Dogon people are quite complicated. The Dogon people also worship their ancestors and the spirits that they have encountered while migrating from other countries.
The Dogons follow three principal cults, which include Awa, Lebe and the Binu. The Awa cult is a cult of the masks or cult of the dead, the purpose of which is to place the spiritual forces in order so that the deceased souls have a safe passage in becoming ancestors.
The Lebe cult is related with the agricultural cycle and its principal priest is known as a Hogon. The cult of Binu is associated to a totemic practice and it has complicated relations with the Dogon's sacred places used for ancestor worship.
With their strong cultural and religious traditions, Dono, Mali has gained substantial prominence over the passage of time.
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