The Sacred Eels of Waai

Ambon Island, part of the Maluku Archipelago

The village of Waai, on Ambon Island – situated near the town of the same name – has a small freshwater reservoir fed from an underground spring – and here we find huge eels. Although the villagers are Christians, there are nevertheless animist rituals held twice per year here. The eels are the chief feature of the ceremonies. Local people worship the eels as their ancestors – believing that the prosperity of the village and its future well-being depend on the eels continuing to live here. As a result, they pray, and beg the sacred fish not to desert heir reservoir. 

The village has an official eel-keeper, whose job is to take care of the eels. It's a hereditary position, and even from childhood the keeper is taught the ways of dealing with the eels. The keeper is also responsible for meeting tourists and guests. By making special sounds, and slapping the water surface, the keeper calls to the eels, and feeds them with chicken eggs. Tourists can join in the process of feeding the eels, and even – if they feel confident – pick them up by hand.