The Impact of Culture on Funeral Practices in Suriname: “Olomang and Kisimang—Okanisi Funerary Practices in the Suriname Rainforest”

This chapter focuses on the funeral and burial practices within Surinamese society, their cultural heritage, ethnic origins as well as its evolution over the years. Document study, oral historiography and interviews with religious leaders provide accurate information regarding such practices. Located on the northern shoulder of the South American continent between Guyana, French Guiana and Brazil, Suriname is culturally unique in many ways as it is the only Dutch speaking country on the continent, and its population is ethnically diverse. Culturally speaking Suriname owes its diverse identity and heritage to the various ethnic groups that inhabit the country. The diversity is reflected in the various rites of passage ceremonies and activities within the Surinamese society. It is further flavored by the various religious influences that has been present in Suriname since the early colonial days and among its indigenous people. This chapter examines the cultural practice outside of the country as well as its version within Suriname to see if these practices have remained pure or have been amalgamated due to other ethnic influences encountered in the new setting. This chapter provides a comprehensive portrait of the cultural impact on burial and funeral rites in the small South American country of Suriname.