Lithuanian-Philippine Connection

Baltos Varnos, a Lithuanian singer duo, just released their new single in January 2020. Their new track is entitled “Namų Dvasai” (EN: home spirit). As usual, it has captivated my attention for its soothing rhythm that seems to whisk me away to this Baltic nation’s mystical forests. Moreover, the message of its poetic lyrics is, dare I say, captivating.

The Lithuanian language is magical. I only have a beginner’s level in Lithuanian and limited exposure to the language, save for two months of language and culture immersion. Nevertheless, my impression and superficial (for the moment) understanding and appreciation of it lead me to say how this ancient indo-european language is deeply rooted to nature and its pagan past. I was raised a Catholic but I’ve identified more to its pagan practice and belief. The profound connection and respect for nature is fascinating and humbling. I first noticed this with the Lithuanian word for “world” : pasaulis (pa - under, saulis - sun). Deconstructed, it could pass to mean “under the sun”. In many ancient beliefs and religions, the sun has always been thought of as a god, a source of all power and divine. Perhaps, this uncanny connection stretches back to the similar past and present belief system of Lithuania and the Philippines.

Lithuania is said to be the last pagan country in Europe, only to convert in the 14th century. However, a so-called neo-pagan movement known as Romuva, established in 1967, attempts to reconstruct and revive Lithuanian paganism. 

Much like the Philippines - a country who once widely practiced animism, Lithuanian paganism also strongly believed in the existence of nature spirits.

Today, both countries’ everyday life revolve around the Roman Catholic religion (...and basketball). 77% of the Lithuanian population and more than 86% of Filipinos are Roman Catholic. Undeniably, both countries continue to practice some sort of paganism/animism today, which survived in the form of folk Catholicism.