134 JOURNAL, R.A.S. (CEYLON). [VOL. XII. 



In connection with devil ceremonies, the water which is 

 used for charming purposes is prepared by mixing some 

 fresh turmeric, Curcuma longa, and is known as kahadiyaro 

 (turmeric water). The threads which are charmed are also 

 likewise coloured with a piece of turmeric. 



In slicing arecanuts for chewing purposes the first slice, 

 which is that which contains the scar, is called the "widow's 

 slice " (kanavendum petto). There is an idea among some 

 people that a woman chewing it constantly will become a 

 widow very soon. 



The paddy cultivators have a belief that there is a certain 

 devil known as Kohombo Yaka (" margosa devil "), who< 

 removes the rice from the threshing-floor, and hence the 

 ceremonies connected with it. 



When epidemics prevail, and especially contagious diseases, 

 the barks of some trees are tied on the fingers or the hands 

 of persons as a protection from the disease. The bark of the 

 Bo {Ficus religiosa) and Bombu (Symplocos spicoto) are thus 

 used to prevent the contagion of sore eyes, and some people 

 have a firm belief in their efficacy. 



There is another belief which is prevalent, that certain 

 trees when growing opposite a house bring good fortune 

 while others bring misfortune. 



Among the fortunate trees the following are included: — - 



Na (Mesua f erred). 

 Palu (Mimusops hexandra). 

 Munamal {Mimusops Elengi). 

 Sapu (Michelia Ghampoco). 

 Pomegranate (Punica Granatum). 

 Margosa (Melia Azedarach). 

 Arecanut (Areca Catechu). 

 Cocoanut (Gocos nucifera). 

 Palmyrah (Borassus flabelliformis). 

 Jak (Artocarpus integrifolia). 

 Shoeflower (Hibiscus Mosa-sinensis). 

 Idda ( Wrightia zeylonico). 

 Nutmeg (Myristica). 

 Midi (Vitis vinifera). 



