Som-kad's Death Chair: The Sangachil in Bontoc Death Rituals

The "sangachil," or death chair, plays a vital role in Bontoc death rituals, particularly for the affluent class known as the "kachangyan." This chair serves to honor the deceased and facilitates their transition to the afterlife, reflecting deep cultural traditions within the Igorot community.

The Story of Som-kad

On March 19, 1903, the wise and wealthy Som-kad, the oldest man from the ato Luwakan, heard an anito say, "Come, Som-kad; it is much better in the mountains." Despite his illness, he laboriously made his way to his oldest son's house, where he had shared meals for nearly two decades. Surrounded by family and friends, Som-kad passed away on the night of March 21. Prior to his death, a chicken was slaughtered, and elders gathered to cook and partake in the meal, inviting both the ancestral anitos and Som-kad's departing spirit to join in the feast.

After he passed, the community performed several rituals to honor him. They closed Som-kad's eyes, washed his body, and dressed him in a blue burial robe adorned with white "anito" figures. A high-back "sangachil" was crafted, and he was bound securely within it. His hands were laid gently in his lap, and bands were fastened around his waist, arms, and head, completely covering his mouth. The chair was positioned near the entrance of the house, facing outward, and it remained in full view of the public for four nights.

Accommodating Mourners

To create space for mourners, half of the front wall of the house was removed. Two young women took on the responsibility of sitting beside the corpse, continuously brushing away flies. Initially, few men gathered around, but Som-kad's blind son would often sing a mournful tune about his father's death and the loneliness that accompanied it. As the days went by, other family members joined in expressing their grief, creating a communal atmosphere of mourning.

Cultural Significance of the Sangachil

The "sangachil" is not only a symbol of respect for the deceased but also reflects a broader cultural significance. It is also known as "sangadil" in other Igorot groups, demonstrating a shared reverence for death rituals across different Igorot communities. This practice of utilizing the sangachil continues to be observed in Bontoc today, while other regions in the Cordillera have shifted away from these traditional customs.

The importance of the sangachil is underscored by its role in connecting the physical and spiritual realms. It represents a cultural symbol deeply rooted in the traditions upheld by the Bontok community, emphasizing the values of respect, family, and continuity even in the face of death.

In the photo accompanying this article, Som-kad and his death chair are depicted, further illustrating the significance of this cultural artifact.

This practice and its related rituals highlight the Igorot's rich cultural heritage and their enduring respect for their ancestors and the afterlife. The story of Som-kad and the use of the sangachil serve as a powerful reminder of the traditions that continue to shape the identity of the Bontok people.

Source: Albert Ernest Jenks, The Bontoc Igorot.