Final answer:
The ritual of tattooing among the Ngaju Dayak of Borneo is a crucial part of affirming identity, stating their place in the universe, and connecting with ancestors, akin to the cultural and spiritual practices of many indigenous peoples around the world.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ritual of tattooing on Borneo Island by the Ngaju Dayak is an important cultural and spiritual practice. This ceremony is carried out for reasons deeply embedded in their sense of identity and communal bonds. Similar to other indigenous traditions around the world, such as the Maori in New Zealand or the Kayapó people in Brazil, the act of tattooing is a way for the Ngaju Dayak to affirm their humanity, state their place in the universe, and commune with their ancestors. It is part of a complex system of beliefs and practices that connect them to their history and the spiritual world.
In a broader context, tattooing has been used by various cultures across the globe for thousands of years as a means of expressing identity, personality, and status. From the warrior cultures of Tonga and Samoa to the American sailors of the mid-20th century, tattoos have been a significant form of personal and group expression. Religious and ritualistic practices, such as the Balinese dance drama or African masks, showcase the use of body art and adorning to strengthen communal ties and engage with the spiritual realm.