The Function of Myth in Social Construction The Waataa Communityof Chopha Village in Focus
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Abstract
The relationship between the Waataa community inhabiting Chopha village and theneighbouring non-Waataa social groups is complex. The Waataas identify themselvesas a „gifted‟ people. On the one hand, the neighboring non-Waataas have a morecomplex perception about the Waataa people. They consider the Waataa the „blessed‟people and need their cultural services. On, the non-Waataas deprecate theWaataa‟sculture. For this reason, the neighboring groups marginalize them.Nowadays some Waataas and young Waataas refute to accept their ancestors‟culture.Hence, the Waataa‟s practices are on the verge of extinction. Thus, study of theWaataa‟s traditional practices needs an urgent task. Based on empirical data gatheredthrough fieldworks, this study examined the creation myth of the Waataa people. Thedata were analysed based on social construction and symbolic interpretation theory. Itwas foundout that the non-Waataas have varying views on the Waataa‟s culturalpractices. The Waataa‟s myth of origin is primarily used to support their status as the„gifted‟ people. The Waataa‟s mythical self-perception is partially not shared by thenon-Waataas. Conversely, a few interpretations of the myth, which is shared by thetwo groups, strengthen their relationship. Thus, the interpretation of the myth isdetermined by specific purpose of meaning construction. Furthermore, the myth isused to justify the Waataa‟s traditional practices. It is also used to empower theirimportant role in the social construction of the neighbouring Oromo groups.