Huminodun

Huminodun is a significant figure in the traditional beliefs of the Kadazan-Dusun people of Sabah, Malaysia. She is revered as a goddess and, more importantly, a primordial sacrifice whose body gave rise to the world and all its bounty, particularly rice.

Huminodun's story is central to the origin myth and agricultural practices of the Kadazan-Dusun. According to the myth, during a time of great famine, Huminodun, the daughter of Kinorohingan (the Supreme Being) and Suminundu (his wife), willingly offered herself as a sacrifice to alleviate the suffering of her people.

Her father, Kinorohingan, then scattered her body parts, each giving rise to a different form of sustenance. From her flesh grew rice, the staple food of the Kadazan-Dusun. Other parts of her body are said to have transformed into other crops and natural resources, ensuring the continued survival and prosperity of the people.

As a result of this sacrifice, Huminodun is deeply respected and honored. The Kaamatan, or Harvest Festival, is celebrated annually in Sabah to commemorate her sacrifice and give thanks for the bountiful harvest. This festival is a significant cultural event, involving rituals, dances, and traditional games, all expressing gratitude for Huminodun's gift and appealing for continued prosperity.

The concept of Huminodun embodies themes of selflessness, sacrifice, and the interconnectedness of life and nature. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of respecting the environment and appreciating the gifts of the land. It also highlights the vital role of agriculture in the Kadazan-Dusun culture and their deep connection to their ancestral traditions.

The belief in Huminodun continues to be an important part of the Kadazan-Dusun cultural identity, even as the community adapts to modern life.