Abstract

In this chapter, I show that Kom agrarian-environmental thought is encapsulated in the Kom triadic worldview commonly referred to as ɨwu-ɨ-kom-ɨ-twal (the Kom three hands) which includes “wayn” (a child), “afo-aghina” (food), and “nyamngvin” (communal flourishing). The child denotes perpetuation of culture; food signifies human subsistence; and “nyamngvin” symbolizes communal flourishing, which includes not only human, but also ecologic, spiritual, and cosmic flourishing and good health. According to this triadic worldview, agriculture and the use of natural resources must take into consideration the interest of the present, past and future generations. In this chapter, I examine some beliefs, values, and practices connected with agriculture and environmental preservation in indigenous Kom culture. In Kom ontology, all of creation, natural and supernatural, stands in intimate relation with each other in perpetual quest for harmony. It is an outlook which discourages the inconsiderate pollution (moral and spiritual) of nature. Here, emphasis is placed on maintaining fertility, ecological protection, and communal flourishing. Humans do not have a special mandate to dominate and/or exploit nature. As co-occupant and interdependent members of an extended community, moral worth is not restricted to humans or rational agents; it is also extended to include nature. Hence, caring for nature means caring for each other. The right attitude to adopt is inter-species reciprocity and solidarity, with humans having the moral responsibility to ensure cosmic balance.