Jelangkung – Don’t Call What You Can’t Send Back (Indonesia)

Jelangkung is a traditional Indonesian game that has always piqued my interest. Growing up, I often heard exciting and eerie tales surrounding this mysterious activity, and I couldn’t resist the allure of experiencing it for myself. The game revolves around summoning spirits, usually involving a doll known as Jelangkung which is believed to serve as a medium for communication with the supernatural. However, it is imperative to know the potential consequences and challenges linked to this practice.

The process of playing Jelangkung involves several steps that combine both cultural and spiritual elements. To begin with, you must gather a group of friends—preferably those who share a sense of adventure and curiosity about the supernatural. You’ll need a doll, often made from materials like wood or fabric, and a piece of paper where you write an invitation for the spirit. This is where I realized the importance of intention. You are seeking a connection that might not be easily broken once established.

Once everything is set up, we would typically proceed to a quiet location, ideally after sunset, to enhance the atmosphere. This is the moment where the eerie excitement builds, and I can’t help but feel both nervous and thrilled. You can’t simply call upon spirits without understanding the grave responsibility that comes with it. It’s not a game to be taken lightly; it’s about respect and awareness of what might be unleashed when you make that call.

As the doll is placed on the ground, and everyone gathers around it, I invite you to focus your energy on the objective of contacting the spirit. It’s crucial during this process to maintain a serious demeanor, as any form of mockery or disrespect could lead the experience to take an unsettling turn. I found that it is imperative to stay concentrated to witness any signs of communication between the worlds—each creak and rustle nearby could feel like a response, sending shivers down my spine.

One fundamental lesson I drew from my excursions with Jelangkung is the importance of knowing when to end the session. When you conclude the involvement with the spirit, you must invite it to leave and make sure you “send it back.” In my experience, failure to do this can lead to lingering energies that may bring disturbances into everyday life. This is why the proverb “don’t call what you can’t send back” gained a profound significance for me.

After each encounter, I couldn’t help but reflect on the responsibility tied to the act of summoning. Engaging with the supernatural should never be viewed as harmless fun. Instead, it is a chance to connect with cultural beliefs, respect the unseen, and nurture the relationships that stretch beyond our tangible existence. The world of Jelangkung is filled with learning opportunities, cautionary tales, and spiritual reflections that I believe everyone should approach with an open mind and a cautious heart.