Saek (people)
The Saek ( Thai แสก ) are an ethnic group in central Laos and northeastern Thailand and form part of the Tai peoples .
Geographical distribution
The Saek live mainly in the middle Mekong Valley in central Laos. A smaller community can be found in northeastern Thailand, Isan , in the province of Nakhon Phanom . The population is approximately 34,000.
language
The Saek language is also called Saek and is part of the Tai languages of the larger Tai-Kadai language family . Many Saek also speak the Laotian or Thai language .
Culture
The cultural practices are similar to those of the larger Tai ethnic groups or have been absorbed by the larger ethnic groups between which they reside. A special feature of the Saek today is their preference for round dances .
religion
Most Saek follow their traditional beliefs, which include ancestor worship . A smaller group belongs to Theravada Buddhism . Ghosts are often sacrificed to ward off disease. Spirits represent the forces of nature. Each Saek village also has guardian spirits who are supposed to protect the community from evil forces.
Individual evidence
- ↑ http://www.joshuaproject.net/peopctry.php?rop3=108502&rog3=LA Joshua Project (in English; last accessed on January 27, 2010).