LESSON-4-CUSTOMS-OF-THE-TAGALOGS

Juan de Plasencia

A 16th-century Franciscan friar who authored 'Customs of the Tagalogs' and contributed to the spread of Christianity in the Philippines.

Customs of the Tagalogs

A work by Juan de Plasencia that describes the political, social, economic, and cultural practices of Filipinos before Christianization.

Barangay

A community or family unit in pre-colonial Philippines, ruled by a chief called Datu.

Datu

The chief who governed the barangay and commanded respect from the people.

Maharlica

Free-born individuals in the social hierarchy of the barangay who did not pay tribute and served in war.

Aliping Namamahay

Individuals who serve their masters but can own personal property.

Aliping sa Guiguilid

Slaves in the barangay system who served their masters and could be sold.

Dowry

Property or money brought by a bride to her husband on their marriage.

Panghimuyat

The nocturnal efforts or rituals related to marriage customs.

Simbahan

The term for a temple or place of adoration in Tagalog worship.

Catolonan

A priest of a high rank who officiates sacrifices to the spirits or deities in Tagalog belief.

Mangagauay

A type of priest believed to pretend to heal the sick, often associated with deceit.

Osuang

A tribal figure said to be able to fly and commit murder, noted in Tagalog folklore.

Macasa

A resting place for the just and valiant in Tagalog burial practices.

Casanaan

A place of punishment, grief, and affliction in Aeta/Negrillo beliefs.

Sitan

Demons thought to inhabit Casanaan, according to Tagalog belief.

Vibit

Phantoms or spirits in the belief systems of the Tagalogs.

Patianac

A belief involving the punishment of women and children who die during childbirth.

Historical Background

The context of early Spanish expeditions to the Philippines, crucial for understanding Plasencia's observations.