What is the zar ritual?

The zar ritual is a traditional spiritual practice primarily found in parts of Africa and the Middle East, particularly among communities in Sudan, Egypt, and Ethiopia. It involves a form of possession trance, where participants seek to appease spirits believed to cause illness or misfortune. The ceremony typically includes music, dancing, and drumming, aimed at healing and restoring balance to the individual and the community. Zar rituals often serve as a means of social support, providing a space for collective expression and coping with life's challenges.