The Rikbaktsá believe in the interchange of "souls" among beings in the physical world. The fate of the dead varies depending on the life they led as humans. Some return as humans (even as "whites") or are reincarnated as "night monkeys" (one of the few animals they never hunt). Others, who were bad people during their lives, return as animals dangerous to humans, such as jaguars or venomous snakes. Conversely, existing beings were once human, and their myths recount how they were permanently transformed into animals. Thus, pigs, tapirs, macaws, birds, and even the moon were once people.
Illness is seen as a disruption caused by breaking taboos (acts that disturb the harmony or inherent order of the world), by curses, or by poisoning inflicted by an enemy. Traditional healing techniques rely on the use of numerous medicinal plants and ritual purifications.
All activities related to hunting, gathering, fishing, and agriculture are imbued with this worldview and are ritualized in a cycle of ceremonies aligned with the agricultural year. Music, songs, and feather ornaments play a fundamental role, expressing their social and mythical universe, as well as their affective, aesthetic, and religious sensibilities. In the process of reclaiming their ethnic dignity, rituals, music, and mythical narratives hold crucial importance, forming the core of cohesion and identity that enables them to navigate the changes brought about by external contact without losing their culture and historical heritage.
Major events include the green corn festival in January, the clearing festival in May, and smaller celebrations throughout the annual cycle. The high point occurs in mid-May, when the moieties and clans display their body paintings, feather ornaments, and distinctive flute tunes. During this time, they reenact mythical episodes as well as historical battles experienced by community members in recent history.
The Rikbaktsá are skilled flute players, and traditional songs are performed during all their festivals.
