Religion
Animism
Animism is the belief of spirits within the religion.
Bhuddism
The chief religion followed by
Laotians is Theravada Bhuddism, but many also honor spirits, called phi, which guide the individual in daily life. These separate sets of religious beliefs are not necessarily in conflict. Many Laotians feel that Bhuddism looks after the eternal soul, while the practice of honoring spirits - called animism - helps a person with more earthly problems. Animists believe that spirits inhabit rivers, forests, rocks and many other natural features. These spirits may be appeased by the faithful who place small offerings of food, little flags and incense in obvious places.
Bhuddism began in India in the sixth century B.C. The faith traces its origins to Siddhartha Guatama, a prince who went on a prolonged search for the meaning of life.
