An outgrowth of the idea of a fetish is the closely related practice of taboo. Whereas the gods or supernatural powers merely inhibit an object that is a fetish and lend it magic, they will punish the imprudent native who violates their prohibition of an act or use of an object or word which has become taboo. If a taboo has been broken, it becomes imperative for the offender to be punished. In many cases, however, the taint on the community may be removed after the priests have performed a special ceremony. Often, the violator of the taboo will be punished or die merely through his own fears of the terrible thing he has done.
- outgrowth – something that grows out of something else.
- fetish – an inanimate object worshiped for its supposed magical powers or because it is considered to be inhabited by a spirit.
- taboo – pantangan
- inhibit – menghalangi
- imprudent – not showing care for the consequences of an action; rash.
- imperative – sangat penting, yg harus dipatuhi
- taint – noda
