Would you like to inspect the original subtitles? These are the user uploaded subtitles that are being translated:
1
00:00:05,481 --> 00:00:06,496
- The following program
2
00:00:06,498 --> 00:00:08,431
Contains disturbing images
and dangerous stunts
3
00:00:08,433 --> 00:00:09,933
That should not
be tried at home.
4
00:00:09,935 --> 00:00:12,428
Viewer discretion is advised.
5
00:00:13,680 --> 00:00:17,891
(suspenseful music)
6
00:00:19,544 --> 00:00:23,564
Imagine taking a
headfirst leap of faith
7
00:00:23,566 --> 00:00:25,690
From a 100-foot tower
8
00:00:25,692 --> 00:00:29,111
With only a vine
tied to your ankle.
9
00:00:30,105 --> 00:00:33,073
- It dates back
about 1,500 years
10
00:00:33,075 --> 00:00:38,620
And it involves a boy who is
coming of age into manhood.
11
00:00:39,106 --> 00:00:40,039
(crowd yelling)
12
00:00:40,041 --> 00:00:42,416
- How about drinking
cobra's blood
13
00:00:42,418 --> 00:00:44,418
To cement a brotherly bond?
14
00:00:44,420 --> 00:00:47,880
- The ritual behind it is
not just for hydration,
15
00:00:47,882 --> 00:00:51,141
It's not just for
consuming nutrients,
16
00:00:51,143 --> 00:00:53,627
You are ingesting the
power of this cobra
17
00:00:53,629 --> 00:00:57,889
To unleash it on your
enemies in the battlefields.
18
00:00:57,891 --> 00:00:59,158
(crowd cheering)
19
00:00:59,160 --> 00:01:03,937
- Or burying yourself alive
to achieve enlightenment.
20
00:01:03,939 --> 00:01:08,216
- He does this all the way
until his heart gives out.
21
00:01:08,819 --> 00:01:11,195
- These are the
rituals so surprising,
22
00:01:11,197 --> 00:01:14,055
They are truly unbelievable.
23
00:01:14,057 --> 00:01:18,285
(suspenseful music)
24
00:01:26,444 --> 00:01:30,255
Throughout history, young
men hoping to become warriors
25
00:01:30,257 --> 00:01:32,299
Have gone through
tests of courage,
26
00:01:32,301 --> 00:01:34,334
Strength, and mental fortitude.
27
00:01:34,336 --> 00:01:37,762
For the young boys of sparta,
it's all of those things,
28
00:01:37,764 --> 00:01:40,765
But also, you are
not allowed to cry.
29
00:01:40,767 --> 00:01:45,003
(dramatic music)
30
00:01:46,031 --> 00:01:48,064
- The spartan warrior is
one of the most feared,
31
00:01:48,066 --> 00:01:53,403
Legendary, disciplined, and
successful warriors in history.
32
00:01:54,490 --> 00:01:55,989
- [dan] preparation for
battlefield victory
33
00:01:55,991 --> 00:01:58,450
Starts young,
very young.
34
00:01:59,177 --> 00:02:02,512
- At birth, young spartan
boys are dipped in wine.
35
00:02:02,514 --> 00:02:06,049
The ones who cry are sent
off to become slaves.
36
00:02:06,051 --> 00:02:10,337
The ones who don't cry are
admitted to warrior training.
37
00:02:11,223 --> 00:02:14,291
- Spartan boys are
trained in toughness.
38
00:02:14,293 --> 00:02:17,344
At age seven, they are
turned over to the state,
39
00:02:17,346 --> 00:02:20,455
And there, they become a part
of a company of other boys
40
00:02:20,457 --> 00:02:22,899
Where they live, work,
and study together.
41
00:02:22,901 --> 00:02:24,050
They go barefoot.
42
00:02:24,052 --> 00:02:25,902
They're not allowed
to wear shoes.
43
00:02:25,904 --> 00:02:27,687
They don't bathe.
44
00:02:27,689 --> 00:02:30,073
- Additionally, to
make the boys tough,
45
00:02:30,075 --> 00:02:31,525
They're given very
minimal clothing.
46
00:02:31,527 --> 00:02:32,984
It's this little cloak.
47
00:02:32,986 --> 00:02:36,046
So during the winter, they're
getting extremely cold,
48
00:02:36,048 --> 00:02:38,073
Being exposed to the elements.
49
00:02:38,075 --> 00:02:39,716
(dark pulsing music)
50
00:02:39,718 --> 00:02:41,201
- [dan] in the spartan camps,
51
00:02:41,203 --> 00:02:43,737
Becoming a warrior is
about three things,
52
00:02:43,739 --> 00:02:47,490
Strength, survival,
and suffering.
53
00:02:48,410 --> 00:02:51,511
- They have to make their own
beds with their own hands,
54
00:02:51,513 --> 00:02:53,171
And it's made out
of plant matter
55
00:02:53,173 --> 00:02:55,690
That they pull from
the riverbanks.
56
00:02:55,692 --> 00:02:58,159
- These boys are
deliberately malnourished
57
00:02:58,161 --> 00:02:59,720
And that's done for
a couple of reasons.
58
00:02:59,722 --> 00:03:02,239
First and foremost, so that
they don't get fat and lazy.
59
00:03:02,241 --> 00:03:04,515
And then secondly, because
they're malnourished,
60
00:03:04,517 --> 00:03:08,686
They'll constantly be looking
for ways to feed themselves.
61
00:03:08,688 --> 00:03:12,774
It's an idea toward
developing resourcefulness.
62
00:03:14,069 --> 00:03:15,677
- [dan] this gives
the boys an edge in
63
00:03:15,679 --> 00:03:19,740
Their next important
test, how to steal.
64
00:03:21,911 --> 00:03:25,045
- There's a wheel of cheese
that's placed on an altar
65
00:03:25,047 --> 00:03:28,565
And these spartan
guards all have whips
66
00:03:28,567 --> 00:03:32,710
And the boys are told to go
in and try to steal the cheese
67
00:03:32,712 --> 00:03:35,255
And dodge the whips.
68
00:03:36,091 --> 00:03:37,216
- They're gonna use
cunning and guile
69
00:03:37,218 --> 00:03:39,225
As a means to try to
get beyond the guards
70
00:03:39,227 --> 00:03:40,460
And get to the cheese.
71
00:03:40,462 --> 00:03:44,640
Then, if they're caught,
they are publicly beaten.
72
00:03:46,160 --> 00:03:50,437
(whip cracking)
(boy gasping)
73
00:03:50,439 --> 00:03:51,821
Even that is training,
74
00:03:51,823 --> 00:03:54,374
Because if they're caught
and they're beaten in public,
75
00:03:54,376 --> 00:03:58,687
They'll feel a compulsion to
maintain a stoic appearance.
76
00:03:58,689 --> 00:04:01,547
They don't want to endure
the public humiliation
77
00:04:01,549 --> 00:04:03,282
Of breaking under the beating.
78
00:04:03,284 --> 00:04:07,562
They have to always maintain
this warrior outlook.
79
00:04:07,564 --> 00:04:08,605
(whip cracking)
80
00:04:08,607 --> 00:04:10,573
(suspenseful music)
81
00:04:10,575 --> 00:04:11,875
- [dan] once they turn 12,
82
00:04:11,877 --> 00:04:15,003
Young spartans are ready
for their final test,
83
00:04:16,047 --> 00:04:17,347
And it's a doozy.
84
00:04:17,349 --> 00:04:21,151
- They're forced to endure a
month-long survival challenge.
85
00:04:21,153 --> 00:04:24,929
They're sent out into the
wilderness by themselves
86
00:04:24,931 --> 00:04:27,157
With a spear and a blanket.
87
00:04:27,159 --> 00:04:29,100
- They have a
variety of challenges
88
00:04:29,102 --> 00:04:30,501
That they have to survive,
89
00:04:30,503 --> 00:04:32,479
Food, water, shelter,
90
00:04:32,481 --> 00:04:35,649
Surviving the elements,
surviving predators.
91
00:04:36,426 --> 00:04:38,818
- Sure, the lions and
the pack of wolves come.
92
00:04:38,820 --> 00:04:40,654
You got your spear and blanket.
93
00:04:42,299 --> 00:04:43,940
- This is a world
in which citizenship
94
00:04:43,942 --> 00:04:47,352
Is not something that
automatically falls on you.
95
00:04:47,354 --> 00:04:49,712
You earn it by succeeding,
96
00:04:49,714 --> 00:04:53,350
By passing the series
of rituals and trials,
97
00:04:53,352 --> 00:04:57,295
And if you survive that final
ritual, you become a citizen.
98
00:04:57,297 --> 00:05:00,631
You have earned the right
to marry and have children,
99
00:05:00,633 --> 00:05:03,902
And you earn the right
to be called a warrior.
100
00:05:03,904 --> 00:05:06,722
(crowd cheering)
101
00:05:08,684 --> 00:05:11,901
- A couple thousand
years later, in 1982,
102
00:05:11,903 --> 00:05:14,354
Another unusual
military ritual begins
103
00:05:14,356 --> 00:05:16,573
In the fetid
jungles of thailand,
104
00:05:16,575 --> 00:05:19,984
And remarkably, it
still occurs today.
105
00:05:20,136 --> 00:05:22,988
(atmospheric music)
106
00:05:24,149 --> 00:05:26,724
- Cobra gold is a joint exercise
107
00:05:26,726 --> 00:05:30,871
Between the us military
and the thai military.
108
00:05:30,873 --> 00:05:33,999
After 1975, the united
states is no longer
109
00:05:34,001 --> 00:05:36,834
On active military
operations in southeast asia,
110
00:05:36,836 --> 00:05:40,147
So the united states is
a little bit out of touch
111
00:05:40,149 --> 00:05:42,365
With the way that you
have to fight to survive
112
00:05:42,367 --> 00:05:44,801
In the jungle environment
of southeast asia.
113
00:05:46,429 --> 00:05:49,222
- [dan] under the tutelage
of the royal thai marines,
114
00:05:49,224 --> 00:05:51,524
The us military
begins a very unique
115
00:05:51,526 --> 00:05:55,412
Jungle survival training
ritual called cobra gold.
116
00:05:55,414 --> 00:05:59,191
Oh, and warning, it's a
little hard to stomach.
117
00:06:01,286 --> 00:06:03,362
- So in cobra gold,
they start off
118
00:06:03,364 --> 00:06:07,424
With eating pieces of
trees, vegetation, grass,
119
00:06:07,426 --> 00:06:10,368
Any type of edible
flower, any type of plant.
120
00:06:10,370 --> 00:06:13,354
Then, they progress
on to the bugs.
121
00:06:13,356 --> 00:06:16,132
- [solider] bite it!
(group groaning)
122
00:06:16,134 --> 00:06:20,587
- So we're talking roasted
cockroaches, grilled beetles.
123
00:06:20,589 --> 00:06:23,056
- And they even teach
them how to eat scorpions,
124
00:06:23,058 --> 00:06:24,508
Which there are lots of.
125
00:06:25,218 --> 00:06:27,627
(group yelling)
126
00:06:27,629 --> 00:06:29,479
- [dan] that's when the
practice takes a turn
127
00:06:29,481 --> 00:06:32,474
Into something
stranger and grosser.
128
00:06:33,893 --> 00:06:36,119
- They also teach
them how to bite
129
00:06:36,121 --> 00:06:38,805
The heads off of chickens
using only their teeth,
130
00:06:38,807 --> 00:06:40,548
In case they lose their knives.
131
00:06:40,550 --> 00:06:43,159
(dramatic music)
132
00:06:43,161 --> 00:06:45,645
- You're being taught how
to live off of the jungle
133
00:06:45,647 --> 00:06:48,739
And how to survive off
of animals that seem like
134
00:06:48,741 --> 00:06:50,667
They would otherwise be
very dangerous to you,
135
00:06:50,669 --> 00:06:52,727
But if you know how,
136
00:06:52,729 --> 00:06:55,746
You can kill them and
survive off of them.
137
00:06:55,748 --> 00:06:57,857
(suspenseful music)
138
00:06:57,859 --> 00:06:59,459
- While biting
heads off chickens
139
00:06:59,461 --> 00:07:02,195
And slurping up
scorpions seems crazy,
140
00:07:02,197 --> 00:07:03,938
The culmination of cobra gold
141
00:07:03,940 --> 00:07:06,491
Is where it really
earns its stripes.
142
00:07:06,493 --> 00:07:10,137
It even scares me,
and I've seen ghosts.
143
00:07:11,873 --> 00:07:13,581
- What the ritual is
really named after
144
00:07:13,583 --> 00:07:19,062
Is the final grand finale of
the buffet, and this is cobra.
145
00:07:19,681 --> 00:07:23,349
(group chattering indistinctly)
146
00:07:23,351 --> 00:07:25,001
- What the thai people show them
147
00:07:25,003 --> 00:07:27,387
Is one way you can give yourself
148
00:07:27,389 --> 00:07:31,374
Both hydration and sustenance
is by finding a cobra,
149
00:07:31,376 --> 00:07:34,661
A deadly snake, and
drinking its blood.
150
00:07:35,663 --> 00:07:36,687
- Even though it
doesn't seem like it
151
00:07:36,689 --> 00:07:37,747
In a jungle environment,
152
00:07:37,749 --> 00:07:39,549
It is easy to become dehydrated
153
00:07:39,551 --> 00:07:41,943
Just as a result of sweat
from high temperatures,
154
00:07:41,945 --> 00:07:45,338
And so the snake's blood
will provide hydration.
155
00:07:46,474 --> 00:07:49,951
- The legend has it, the
more deadly your cobra is,
156
00:07:49,953 --> 00:07:53,120
The more that you will
consume the cobra's power.
157
00:07:53,122 --> 00:07:54,214
(hissing snake)
158
00:07:54,216 --> 00:07:58,018
So the ritual behind it
is not just for hydration,
159
00:07:58,020 --> 00:08:01,963
It's not just for
consuming nutrients,
160
00:08:01,965 --> 00:08:04,483
You are ingesting the
power of this cobra
161
00:08:04,485 --> 00:08:08,528
And able to unleash it on your
enemies in the battlefield.
162
00:08:10,032 --> 00:08:13,082
- [dan] today, the power
of the cobra gold ritual
163
00:08:13,084 --> 00:08:14,659
Has spread across the world,
164
00:08:14,661 --> 00:08:17,470
Becoming the ultimate
bonding experience
165
00:08:17,472 --> 00:08:19,164
For warrior brothers.
166
00:08:20,984 --> 00:08:22,408
- Now, it's evolved to be
167
00:08:22,410 --> 00:08:25,712
The largest multinational
military exercise in the world.
168
00:08:25,714 --> 00:08:29,407
It includes 29 nations,
including the us and thailand,
169
00:08:29,409 --> 00:08:32,435
And also south korea,
vietnam, and japan.
170
00:08:32,437 --> 00:08:34,137
(chopper whirring)
171
00:08:34,139 --> 00:08:36,906
- Cobra gold provides
this strong bond
172
00:08:36,908 --> 00:08:39,667
Between our military and
these foreign nations
173
00:08:39,669 --> 00:08:43,563
That we may one day be called
on to fight side-by-side with.
174
00:08:43,565 --> 00:08:46,357
The kind of bond that
can only be developed
175
00:08:46,359 --> 00:08:49,736
Through enduring
harsh circumstances.
176
00:08:49,738 --> 00:08:52,656
(helicopter engines whirring)
177
00:08:54,859 --> 00:08:56,851
- [dan] when I mention mummies,
you might think egypt,
178
00:08:56,853 --> 00:08:58,686
But preparing bodies
for the afterlife
179
00:08:58,688 --> 00:09:01,581
Goes far beyond the
valley of the kings,
180
00:09:01,583 --> 00:09:04,934
And some people don't
even wait to die
181
00:09:04,936 --> 00:09:07,170
Before starting the process.
182
00:09:07,714 --> 00:09:10,306
(suspenseful music)
183
00:09:10,308 --> 00:09:14,952
- In the ninth century ad, a
japanese monk named kobo daishi
184
00:09:14,954 --> 00:09:17,054
Founds a school of buddhism
185
00:09:17,056 --> 00:09:18,698
Called shingon buddhism.
186
00:09:18,700 --> 00:09:20,016
- This type of buddhism,
187
00:09:20,018 --> 00:09:21,718
According to daishi
and his followers,
188
00:09:21,720 --> 00:09:25,805
Its goal is to attain
ultimate enlightenment,
189
00:09:25,807 --> 00:09:27,048
And to do that, what
190
00:09:27,050 --> 00:09:28,375
One is supposed to do
191
00:09:28,560 --> 00:09:29,826
Is they're supposed to give up
192
00:09:29,828 --> 00:09:32,720
The simple common
pleasures of life.
193
00:09:32,722 --> 00:09:36,240
- They live in the mountains,
they live like hermits.
194
00:09:36,242 --> 00:09:37,750
They forage for their food.
195
00:09:37,752 --> 00:09:40,828
They rid themselves of
anything that pretty much
196
00:09:40,830 --> 00:09:43,306
Any of us would consider
good and pleasurable
197
00:09:43,308 --> 00:09:46,676
In this very, very
difficult, hard lifestyle.
198
00:09:46,678 --> 00:09:49,162
- [dan] it's not enough to
attain enlightenment in life,
199
00:09:49,164 --> 00:09:52,181
They want to reach
nirvana in the afterlife
200
00:09:52,183 --> 00:09:54,167
And shingon leader kobo daishi
201
00:09:54,169 --> 00:09:57,721
Decides to show his
followers it can be done.
202
00:10:01,860 --> 00:10:03,685
- [brandy] as he nears
the end of his life,
203
00:10:03,687 --> 00:10:06,896
Kobo daishi crawls
into his own tomb,
204
00:10:06,898 --> 00:10:08,707
Denies himself
everything,
205
00:10:08,709 --> 00:10:11,033
Including the
sustenance of life.
206
00:10:11,035 --> 00:10:14,303
- We're talking no food,
no water, no nothing,
207
00:10:14,305 --> 00:10:17,740
And he dedicates himself 100%
208
00:10:17,742 --> 00:10:20,118
To being truly one with himself.
209
00:10:20,120 --> 00:10:25,624
He does this practice all the
way until his heart gives out.
210
00:10:26,885 --> 00:10:29,035
- Kobo daishi doesn't
think of this as suicide
211
00:10:29,204 --> 00:10:30,945
Because he plans on returning
212
00:10:30,947 --> 00:10:32,705
To the life of the living.
213
00:10:32,707 --> 00:10:34,215
According to shingon beliefs,
214
00:10:34,217 --> 00:10:38,219
Kobo daishi will return
from the afterlife
215
00:10:38,221 --> 00:10:41,765
In 5.67 million years.
216
00:10:42,583 --> 00:10:44,717
- [dan] but his
followers get curious,
217
00:10:44,719 --> 00:10:48,304
And a few years later,
opened daishi's tomb.
218
00:10:48,306 --> 00:10:50,940
What they find is unbelievable.
219
00:10:52,243 --> 00:10:55,411
- His body is incredibly
well-preserved.
220
00:10:55,413 --> 00:10:58,472
There seems to be no
real signs of decay
221
00:10:58,474 --> 00:11:00,717
As you would see
on a normal corpse.
222
00:11:00,719 --> 00:11:04,995
His skin is still intact,
muscle is still intact.
223
00:11:04,997 --> 00:11:06,956
- He just looks like
he might be sleeping.
224
00:11:06,958 --> 00:11:10,259
His followers recognize that
he seems to have achieved
225
00:11:10,261 --> 00:11:11,494
Everything that
he set out to do,
226
00:11:11,496 --> 00:11:14,430
Enlightenment, and
they worship him.
227
00:11:14,432 --> 00:11:16,566
- [dan] kobo daishi's
followers are convinced
228
00:11:16,568 --> 00:11:18,843
They too can achieve
life after death,
229
00:11:18,845 --> 00:11:22,855
So over the next 900 years,
they evolve his arduous ritual
230
00:11:22,857 --> 00:11:25,516
Into an even more
torturous process known as
231
00:11:25,518 --> 00:11:29,503
"sokushinbutsu" or
"buddha in this body."
232
00:11:29,505 --> 00:11:35,026
- It begins with the
denial of food and drink,
233
00:11:36,153 --> 00:11:39,305
Sometimes involving
fasts that, unbelievably,
234
00:11:39,307 --> 00:11:41,974
Can last up to 4,000 days.
235
00:11:41,976 --> 00:11:47,205
After a certain point,
the initiate will consume
236
00:11:47,958 --> 00:11:50,858
The sap of a chinese
lacquer tree.
237
00:11:50,860 --> 00:11:53,586
- This special brew makes
the human body so toxic
238
00:11:53,588 --> 00:11:55,312
That insects want
nothing to do with it,
239
00:11:55,314 --> 00:11:57,773
So they leave it alone,
thus allowing it to stay
240
00:11:57,775 --> 00:12:00,902
That much more preserved
for a longer period of time.
241
00:12:00,904 --> 00:12:02,554
- [dan] drinking
this lethal brew,
242
00:12:02,556 --> 00:12:04,848
There's only one
thing left to do.
243
00:12:06,125 --> 00:12:09,184
- The monk is put
into a small pine box
244
00:12:09,186 --> 00:12:11,471
And lowered 10 feet
into the ground.
245
00:12:11,473 --> 00:12:13,489
There's charcoal
put on top of him,
246
00:12:13,491 --> 00:12:16,376
And there is a small pine rod
247
00:12:16,378 --> 00:12:19,228
That the monk can use to
breathe from the inside.
248
00:12:19,230 --> 00:12:21,130
They don't want to asphyxiate.
249
00:12:21,132 --> 00:12:22,915
There's also a bell
inside the box.
250
00:12:22,917 --> 00:12:24,984
As the monk is meditating,
they ring the bell
251
00:12:24,986 --> 00:12:28,079
To let people above know
that they're still alive.
252
00:12:30,325 --> 00:12:32,508
- Once the bell ringing ceases,
253
00:12:32,510 --> 00:12:36,028
They will then
formally bury the body.
254
00:12:36,030 --> 00:12:39,332
It will be left
buried for 1,000 days,
255
00:12:39,334 --> 00:12:41,334
After which it is exhumed.
256
00:12:41,336 --> 00:12:45,596
If it shows no signs of
physical decomposition,
257
00:12:45,598 --> 00:12:50,143
Then the monk has attained
the idealized state
258
00:12:52,864 --> 00:12:55,440
And will be placed
on holy display.
259
00:12:57,535 --> 00:12:58,485
- [dan] the japanese government
260
00:12:58,487 --> 00:13:01,428
Eventually outlaws
sokushinbutsu,
261
00:13:01,430 --> 00:13:04,373
But not before many
more attempt it.
262
00:13:04,375 --> 00:13:06,926
- From the year 1081 to 1903,
263
00:13:06,928 --> 00:13:11,347
Hundreds of monks attempt
this, but only 17 succeed.
264
00:13:11,349 --> 00:13:13,833
- As a matter of fact,
you can see these monks.
265
00:13:13,835 --> 00:13:15,502
They are on display in japan.
266
00:13:15,504 --> 00:13:17,353
You can go and see their bodies.
267
00:13:17,355 --> 00:13:20,139
- They don't look
like they're sleeping.
268
00:13:20,141 --> 00:13:22,892
They don't look alive,
but they are preserved.
269
00:13:22,894 --> 00:13:26,346
They sit in the lotus
position forever.
270
00:13:26,348 --> 00:13:28,372
Their bodies hardened in place,
271
00:13:28,374 --> 00:13:33,052
And many of them while on
display have sunglasses on.
272
00:13:33,054 --> 00:13:34,303
That's because the one thing
273
00:13:34,305 --> 00:13:38,399
That does decompose and
rot away are your eyeballs.
274
00:13:40,244 --> 00:13:44,071
- Displaying the deceased
after they've been preserved
275
00:13:44,073 --> 00:13:47,474
Is practiced in a number of
cultures around the world,
276
00:13:47,476 --> 00:13:49,886
But an indigenous
group in indonesia
277
00:13:49,888 --> 00:13:53,623
Has turned such a
ritual into an art form.
278
00:13:54,876 --> 00:13:57,243
- While waiting to make
funeral arrangements,
279
00:13:57,679 --> 00:14:00,179
Some toraja people
keep their dead
280
00:14:00,181 --> 00:14:04,175
In their house for
weeks, if not for years.
281
00:14:04,177 --> 00:14:07,912
- The toraja people firmly
believe that a family member
282
00:14:07,914 --> 00:14:11,424
Is not dead until they
are buried in the ground.
283
00:14:11,426 --> 00:14:13,667
As a matter of fact,
until they're buried,
284
00:14:13,669 --> 00:14:15,411
The family member
who has passed on
285
00:14:15,413 --> 00:14:18,505
Is referred to as
"makula" or just sick.
286
00:14:18,507 --> 00:14:21,350
- So if someone says,
"how's your grandmother?"
287
00:14:21,352 --> 00:14:23,819
You'd say, "grandmother is ill,"
288
00:14:23,821 --> 00:14:25,405
But grandmother
might actually be
289
00:14:25,407 --> 00:14:28,557
Slowly mummifying around
your kitchen table.
290
00:14:29,368 --> 00:14:31,427
- [dan] the key to the
torajan afterlife ritual
291
00:14:31,429 --> 00:14:34,447
Is the way the body is
preserved by loved ones.
292
00:14:34,449 --> 00:14:36,449
- They can't let the body
decompose in the house,
293
00:14:36,451 --> 00:14:37,633
Because if they leave it alone,
294
00:14:37,635 --> 00:14:39,468
Eventually, it's going
to wither away and rot
295
00:14:39,470 --> 00:14:40,970
And it's not going
to smell well.
296
00:14:40,972 --> 00:14:42,772
- They wrap the bodies in cloth,
297
00:14:42,774 --> 00:14:44,883
And the cloth has been
doused in formaldehyde,
298
00:14:44,885 --> 00:14:47,727
And this wrapping
process continues,
299
00:14:47,729 --> 00:14:50,813
And once you have done
that enough times,
300
00:14:50,815 --> 00:14:52,298
The body itself has dried out
301
00:14:52,300 --> 00:14:55,392
To a point that it has
basically been mummified.
302
00:14:55,394 --> 00:14:59,455
- Families interact
with the family member
303
00:14:59,457 --> 00:15:03,400
As though he or she is
still very much present.
304
00:15:03,402 --> 00:15:05,069
- People talk to the body.
305
00:15:05,071 --> 00:15:06,404
People dress the body.
306
00:15:06,406 --> 00:15:08,697
People offer it things
like cigarettes.
307
00:15:08,699 --> 00:15:11,467
During mealtime, they
make the body a plate,
308
00:15:11,469 --> 00:15:14,287
Because again, it is
not seen as dead yet.
309
00:15:14,289 --> 00:15:16,639
It is only seen as sick.
310
00:15:16,641 --> 00:15:18,916
- The longer the
body is kept at home,
311
00:15:18,918 --> 00:15:21,461
The more money can be
saved for a funeral
312
00:15:21,463 --> 00:15:24,005
And thus the more
elaborate the funeral.
313
00:15:24,932 --> 00:15:26,256
- In the united states,
314
00:15:26,258 --> 00:15:28,635
The wedding is the thing
that people save money for.
315
00:15:28,637 --> 00:15:30,260
They have to save for
their kid's wedding
316
00:15:30,262 --> 00:15:32,430
Or for their own wedding,
their grandchildren's wedding.
317
00:15:32,432 --> 00:15:33,473
In torajan culture,
318
00:15:33,475 --> 00:15:35,675
It's the funeral that
you save money for,
319
00:15:35,677 --> 00:15:38,944
And these can be outlandishly
expensive and lavish
320
00:15:38,946 --> 00:15:41,255
Because you want people
to come and celebrate
321
00:15:41,257 --> 00:15:45,117
The person who has died, and
you can't celebrate them well
322
00:15:45,119 --> 00:15:47,069
If you don't have
enough money to do it.
323
00:15:47,071 --> 00:15:49,172
- This can range
in dollar amounts
324
00:15:49,174 --> 00:15:53,868
From $50,000 to
literally $500,000.
325
00:15:54,779 --> 00:15:56,946
- While the family saves up,
326
00:15:56,948 --> 00:15:59,290
The body continues
to be on display
327
00:15:59,292 --> 00:16:02,943
For the community to come
by and pay their respects
328
00:16:02,945 --> 00:16:06,280
To honor the person, to
say their final goodbyes,
329
00:16:06,282 --> 00:16:08,633
To make sure they get
the proper sendoff.
330
00:16:11,680 --> 00:16:12,553
In many cultures,
331
00:16:12,555 --> 00:16:14,897
The passage from
childhood into adulthood
332
00:16:14,899 --> 00:16:17,350
Involves celebration and smiles.
333
00:16:17,352 --> 00:16:21,370
For a tribe in brazil, it means
something quite different.
334
00:16:21,647 --> 00:16:24,731
(mysterious droning music)
335
00:16:24,733 --> 00:16:26,559
- Deep in the amazon jungle,
336
00:16:26,561 --> 00:16:30,488
The aspiring young men
of the satere-mawe tribe
337
00:16:30,490 --> 00:16:32,898
Have to endure the
most excruciating
338
00:16:32,900 --> 00:16:34,867
Rite of passage imaginable,
339
00:16:34,869 --> 00:16:39,080
The wearing of two gloves,
each filled with bullet ants.
340
00:16:40,916 --> 00:16:43,242
- You don't want to
encounter a bullet ant.
341
00:16:43,561 --> 00:16:46,653
Their sting feels like
you've been shot by a gun.
342
00:16:46,655 --> 00:16:48,297
It hurts really bad
343
00:16:49,008 --> 00:16:51,067
- And that's just one ant.
344
00:16:51,069 --> 00:16:54,137
Each glove?
Filled with hundreds of ants.
345
00:16:56,174 --> 00:16:57,681
- [dan] on the
day of the ritual,
346
00:16:57,683 --> 00:17:00,226
The village buzzes
with anticipation.
347
00:17:00,228 --> 00:17:03,896
The first order of business,
round up some ants.
348
00:17:05,708 --> 00:17:08,835
- Members of the tribe will
go out into the amazon jungle
349
00:17:08,837 --> 00:17:10,928
And collect all of
these bullet ants,
350
00:17:10,930 --> 00:17:12,655
Hundreds of bullet ants.
351
00:17:12,657 --> 00:17:16,325
Elders of the community will
blow smoke on these ants
352
00:17:16,327 --> 00:17:17,744
As a way to pacify them, right,
353
00:17:17,746 --> 00:17:20,288
To sort of lull them to sleep.
354
00:17:21,874 --> 00:17:24,958
- The elders take them and they
weave them into the gloves,
355
00:17:24,960 --> 00:17:28,053
With the stingers
pointing hand ward,
356
00:17:28,055 --> 00:17:33,551
So whoever puts on these
gloves is in for a painful day.
357
00:17:34,128 --> 00:17:37,146
(suspenseful music)
358
00:17:37,148 --> 00:17:39,540
- I mean, imagine the feeling,
there are hundreds of bullets
359
00:17:39,542 --> 00:17:42,685
Piercing your own
flesh repeatedly.
360
00:17:44,655 --> 00:17:47,723
- The boy must keep his hands
361
00:17:47,725 --> 00:17:52,069
In the gloves for 10 minutes.
362
00:17:52,071 --> 00:17:55,239
These boys will sometimes
enter a trance-like dance
363
00:17:55,241 --> 00:17:57,499
To sort of detach
themselves mentally
364
00:17:57,501 --> 00:17:59,159
From what they're going
through physically
365
00:17:59,161 --> 00:18:01,086
To make sure that
they can withstand
366
00:18:01,088 --> 00:18:04,082
The excruciating amount of pain.
367
00:18:04,934 --> 00:18:07,476
(tribe members chanting)
368
00:18:07,478 --> 00:18:09,145
- [dan] and if that
isn't bad enough,
369
00:18:09,147 --> 00:18:12,714
They have to do this
again another 19 times.
370
00:18:12,867 --> 00:18:15,468
(tribal instrumental music)
371
00:18:15,470 --> 00:18:17,411
- You must really
want to be a man.
372
00:18:17,413 --> 00:18:20,172
You have to get stung not
just anywhere in your body,
373
00:18:20,174 --> 00:18:22,583
But in one of the places
with the most nerve endings,
374
00:18:22,585 --> 00:18:26,813
In your hand, and you have to
endure this for 10 minutes,
375
00:18:26,815 --> 00:18:30,149
And then do it for
a total of 20 times.
376
00:18:30,151 --> 00:18:31,867
I'd be like, "you know what?
I'll pass.
377
00:18:31,869 --> 00:18:35,279
I'll just be a boy forever.
Call me peter pan."
378
00:18:35,281 --> 00:18:39,783
(suspenseful music)
379
00:18:39,785 --> 00:18:43,045
- While enduring pain might
make a man in the amazon,
380
00:18:43,047 --> 00:18:46,499
Boys of the vanuatu tribe
in the southwest pacific
381
00:18:46,501 --> 00:18:50,961
Must take a leap of faith
that could kill them.
382
00:18:50,963 --> 00:18:54,841
(rumbling dark music)
383
00:18:54,843 --> 00:18:56,792
- About 1,000 miles off
the coast of australia,
384
00:18:56,794 --> 00:19:00,245
On one of nearly 80 islands
of what's called vanuatu,
385
00:19:00,247 --> 00:19:03,065
Local boys practice a
rite of passage called
386
00:19:03,067 --> 00:19:05,459
Land diving or nanggol.
387
00:19:05,461 --> 00:19:08,812
- It dates back
about 1,500 years,
388
00:19:08,814 --> 00:19:11,340
And it involves a boy who is
389
00:19:11,342 --> 00:19:14,059
Coming of age into manhood
390
00:19:14,562 --> 00:19:17,155
To climb up a 100-foot tower.
391
00:19:17,973 --> 00:19:19,915
- Once they reach
the top of the tower,
392
00:19:19,917 --> 00:19:24,061
They take two thick,
stretchy vines
393
00:19:24,063 --> 00:19:26,038
And they tie them
to their ankles.
394
00:19:26,040 --> 00:19:27,156
What they will then do
395
00:19:27,158 --> 00:19:30,409
Is they will stand
atop this wooden tower
396
00:19:30,411 --> 00:19:33,921
And they just dive
onto the earth.
397
00:19:36,342 --> 00:19:37,766
(suspenseful music)
398
00:19:37,768 --> 00:19:39,251
- [dan] the goal is
to brush the ground
399
00:19:39,253 --> 00:19:40,769
With the lightest of touches.
400
00:19:40,771 --> 00:19:42,855
Picking the right vine
can be the difference
401
00:19:42,857 --> 00:19:47,142
Between success and a funeral.
402
00:19:47,144 --> 00:19:49,912
- The land diving ritual
takes place every year
403
00:19:49,914 --> 00:19:54,024
From April to June when
the land is at its wettest
404
00:19:54,026 --> 00:19:56,168
And the vines are
at their stretchiest.
405
00:19:57,112 --> 00:20:01,007
- There have been instances
where boys have gone land diving
406
00:20:01,009 --> 00:20:03,459
And they end up breaking bones,
407
00:20:03,461 --> 00:20:04,944
Shattering parts of their body.
408
00:20:04,946 --> 00:20:06,829
It's incredibly dangerous.
409
00:20:07,832 --> 00:20:11,133
- The job of selecting
the vines for each boy
410
00:20:11,135 --> 00:20:12,693
Is left up to trusted elders,
411
00:20:12,695 --> 00:20:17,130
And they do so based on the
height and weight of the boy.
412
00:20:17,132 --> 00:20:19,574
So talk about a
process to make sure
413
00:20:19,576 --> 00:20:21,685
You treat your
elders with respect?
414
00:20:21,687 --> 00:20:25,097
This is it, because any
miscalculation can be fatal.
415
00:20:25,099 --> 00:20:28,467
- A successful jump means
the boy is now a man.
416
00:20:28,469 --> 00:20:30,803
It also brings good
luck to the village,
417
00:20:30,805 --> 00:20:34,823
And that usually means
an excellent yam harvest.
418
00:20:34,825 --> 00:20:38,885
- [dan] so just who started
this daring ritual of manhood?
419
00:20:38,887 --> 00:20:42,306
Surprisingly, not a man.
420
00:20:42,717 --> 00:20:44,166
(suspenseful music)
421
00:20:44,168 --> 00:20:46,502
- A wife is being
abused by her husband.
422
00:20:47,062 --> 00:20:51,156
She flees him, she
climbs up into a tree,
423
00:20:51,158 --> 00:20:55,569
Attaches vines to her legs,
and dives from the tree,
424
00:20:55,571 --> 00:21:00,983
Saved by these springy,
moist, strong vines.
425
00:21:01,819 --> 00:21:05,762
- Her husband, seeing this,
attempts the same thing,
426
00:21:05,764 --> 00:21:08,190
But when he jumps, he dies.
427
00:21:08,192 --> 00:21:10,250
(pulsing mysterious music)
428
00:21:10,252 --> 00:21:12,602
- Women in the area
begin jumping for fun,
429
00:21:12,604 --> 00:21:16,106
Inspired by the woman's
act of marital defiance.
430
00:21:16,108 --> 00:21:18,667
- But to avert the shame
431
00:21:18,669 --> 00:21:21,928
Of being shown up by
women of the village,
432
00:21:21,930 --> 00:21:26,283
The males claim this
ritual for their own.
433
00:21:26,285 --> 00:21:29,653
(suspenseful music)
434
00:21:29,655 --> 00:21:32,181
- If this ritual sounds
familiar, it should,
435
00:21:32,183 --> 00:21:34,458
Because it's become a
recreational activity
436
00:21:34,460 --> 00:21:36,352
That's been scaring
the pants off people
437
00:21:36,354 --> 00:21:38,170
For more than 50 years.
438
00:21:39,557 --> 00:21:41,798
- In the 1970s, a man by
the name of a.J. Hackett
439
00:21:41,800 --> 00:21:45,477
Visits the island and he sees
land diving being performed,
440
00:21:45,479 --> 00:21:47,721
And he is fascinated,
he's intrigued,
441
00:21:47,723 --> 00:21:51,725
And he also thinks "I could
make some money off of this."
442
00:21:52,470 --> 00:21:55,187
- He asks the locals if he can
make a version of land diving
443
00:21:55,189 --> 00:21:57,814
That he can share
outside of vanuatu,
444
00:21:57,816 --> 00:22:01,894
And he makes a few safety
modifications along the way,
445
00:22:01,896 --> 00:22:04,221
And ends up calling
it bungee jumping.
446
00:22:04,223 --> 00:22:06,157
(dramatic insistent music)
447
00:22:06,159 --> 00:22:08,159
- [dan] five million
people worldwide
448
00:22:08,161 --> 00:22:10,035
Have tried bungee jumping,
449
00:22:10,037 --> 00:22:13,622
But land diving isn't
something you can just try.
450
00:22:14,542 --> 00:22:17,292
- To this day, this
ritual remains,
451
00:22:17,294 --> 00:22:19,186
And when tourists visit vanuatu,
452
00:22:19,188 --> 00:22:22,548
The island residents
perform the ritual for them,
453
00:22:22,550 --> 00:22:24,917
And quite often, of course,
a tourist would think,
454
00:22:24,919 --> 00:22:25,992
"hey, can I try?"
455
00:22:25,994 --> 00:22:28,237
And the answer is
"absolutely not.
456
00:22:28,239 --> 00:22:29,830
You're not a member
of our community.
457
00:22:29,832 --> 00:22:30,939
Take your butt outta here
and go bungee jumping."
458
00:22:31,092 --> 00:22:31,757
Take your butt outta here
and go bungee jumping."
459
00:22:32,426 --> 00:22:33,092
Take your butt outta here
and go bungee jumping."
460
00:22:33,227 --> 00:22:34,352
(crowd cheering)
461
00:22:34,354 --> 00:22:37,563
(suspenseful music)
462
00:22:40,008 --> 00:22:41,067
- Do you pinky swear?
463
00:22:41,069 --> 00:22:42,951
Well, I sure as heck don't.
464
00:22:43,237 --> 00:22:47,030
As innocuous as this
childhood oath may seem,
465
00:22:47,032 --> 00:22:50,025
It has a seriously
dark origin story.
466
00:22:50,027 --> 00:22:51,860
(dark ambient music)
467
00:22:51,862 --> 00:22:54,855
- The yakuza, the infamous
japanese crime syndicate,
468
00:22:54,857 --> 00:22:59,043
Begins a ritual that is actually
known as finger shortening.
469
00:23:00,737 --> 00:23:02,287
They call it "yubitsume,"
470
00:23:02,289 --> 00:23:04,865
Which is the act of
amputating your own finger
471
00:23:04,867 --> 00:23:07,033
Using a super sharp knife,
472
00:23:07,035 --> 00:23:08,777
And this would be
used as a punishment
473
00:23:08,779 --> 00:23:11,630
For disobeying the rules
of the organization.
474
00:23:12,617 --> 00:23:17,002
- You are required to cut
off the uppermost portion
475
00:23:17,004 --> 00:23:20,856
Of your left pinky, wrap
in some kind of a cloth,
476
00:23:20,858 --> 00:23:24,727
And present as ceremonially
to the authority figure
477
00:23:24,729 --> 00:23:26,153
Who you have offended.
478
00:23:27,748 --> 00:23:29,982
- First infraction?
One knuckle.
479
00:23:29,984 --> 00:23:32,843
Second infraction?
Next knuckle.
480
00:23:32,845 --> 00:23:35,979
You could tell someone's
level of infractions
481
00:23:35,981 --> 00:23:37,314
In their crime syndicate
482
00:23:37,316 --> 00:23:40,075
By how many knuckles
they have left.
483
00:23:40,077 --> 00:23:42,128
- [dan] in a move that
seems to defy logic,
484
00:23:42,130 --> 00:23:45,423
The ritual makes its way
to american playgrounds,
485
00:23:45,425 --> 00:23:47,933
Thankfully transformed.
486
00:23:47,935 --> 00:23:49,251
- Not quite as brutal,
487
00:23:49,253 --> 00:23:53,413
But a pinky swear is the
most solemn form of swear.
488
00:23:53,415 --> 00:23:55,015
Nobody breaks that bond.
489
00:23:56,168 --> 00:23:58,727
- As it turns out,
oath rituals don't get
490
00:23:58,729 --> 00:24:01,046
Any less outlandish
the older you get,
491
00:24:01,865 --> 00:24:04,692
Even for the planet's
most powerful people.
492
00:24:05,761 --> 00:24:10,296
- Bohemian club is set up
in san francisco in 1872,
493
00:24:10,298 --> 00:24:11,365
And basically, this is
494
00:24:11,367 --> 00:24:12,825
A club for journalists,
495
00:24:12,827 --> 00:24:14,209
For people who are exploring
496
00:24:14,211 --> 00:24:15,268
And thinking about ideas.
497
00:24:15,270 --> 00:24:16,829
The cool kids, if you will.
498
00:24:16,831 --> 00:24:21,834
Ronald reagan, richard nixon,
kissinger is in the club.
499
00:24:21,836 --> 00:24:25,671
- [dan] but the city is no
place to forge fraternal bonds.
500
00:24:25,673 --> 00:24:29,483
That happens in a hidden
forest in northern california
501
00:24:29,485 --> 00:24:31,802
Called bohemian grove.
502
00:24:33,322 --> 00:24:35,547
- It's really like the
ultimate sleepaway
503
00:24:35,700 --> 00:24:36,723
Summer camp for
504
00:24:36,725 --> 00:24:38,066
Rich and famous men.
505
00:24:38,536 --> 00:24:42,045
They sleep in tents,
they drink heavily,
506
00:24:42,047 --> 00:24:43,380
And they also network.
507
00:24:43,382 --> 00:24:44,573
(light haunting music)
508
00:24:44,575 --> 00:24:46,716
- [dan] don't let the
laughs and liquor fool you.
509
00:24:46,718 --> 00:24:48,777
Members gather at
the bohemian grove
510
00:24:48,779 --> 00:24:52,322
To hatch plans that
change history.
511
00:24:52,324 --> 00:24:53,732
(suspenseful music)
512
00:24:53,734 --> 00:24:58,570
- No less than the manhattan
project was agreed upon here.
513
00:24:58,572 --> 00:25:02,524
J. Robert oppenheimer
first breaches the idea
514
00:25:02,526 --> 00:25:04,084
At bohemian grove.
515
00:25:04,086 --> 00:25:07,162
We can thank atomic
weaponry and atomic power
516
00:25:07,164 --> 00:25:09,965
For what happens
at bohemian grove.
517
00:25:11,968 --> 00:25:13,344
- [dan] before getting
down to business,
518
00:25:13,346 --> 00:25:15,888
The retreat kicks off
with an odd ritual.
519
00:25:16,690 --> 00:25:19,642
This is when things get weird.
520
00:25:19,644 --> 00:25:24,112
- The retreat begins
with an ornate ceremony
521
00:25:24,114 --> 00:25:26,815
Called "the cremation of care."
522
00:25:27,434 --> 00:25:29,268
The idea being that we are here
523
00:25:29,270 --> 00:25:32,755
To take the weight of
power off of our shoulders.
524
00:25:32,757 --> 00:25:35,624
We're leaving behind the
cares of the outer world.
525
00:25:35,626 --> 00:25:39,828
- A boat known as "the ferry
of care" contains an effigy
526
00:25:39,830 --> 00:25:43,115
In the shape of a body
known as "the body of care"
527
00:25:43,117 --> 00:25:45,542
And it is sent across
the body of water
528
00:25:45,544 --> 00:25:49,137
To these dark, mysterious,
hooded figures.
529
00:25:49,640 --> 00:25:51,390
(haunting ambient music)
530
00:25:51,392 --> 00:25:54,793
- This effigy is
placed at the feet
531
00:25:54,795 --> 00:25:58,204
Of this 40-foot owl structure
532
00:25:58,206 --> 00:26:02,785
That's covered in moss and
leaves, and it is set afire,
533
00:26:02,787 --> 00:26:05,645
And so is immolated the
cares of the world,
534
00:26:05,647 --> 00:26:10,067
And so is sealed a bond
of privacy among members.
535
00:26:11,161 --> 00:26:13,270
- This 40-foot owl statue,
536
00:26:13,272 --> 00:26:16,315
This shrine, is so
important to these men,
537
00:26:16,317 --> 00:26:19,084
They've actually come
up with a name for it
538
00:26:19,086 --> 00:26:21,036
That has deep meaning for them.
539
00:26:21,038 --> 00:26:23,672
They call it "the owl."
540
00:26:23,674 --> 00:26:25,915
(pulsing electronic music)
541
00:26:25,917 --> 00:26:30,570
- And apparently, the
owl speaks with the voice
542
00:26:30,572 --> 00:26:33,832
Of famed newsman
walter cronkite.
543
00:26:33,834 --> 00:26:36,660
An owl that sounds
like walter cronkite?
544
00:26:36,662 --> 00:26:40,922
Super weird, but that's how
the rich and powerful get down.
545
00:26:40,924 --> 00:26:42,783
- [dan] I am walter cronkite,
546
00:26:42,785 --> 00:26:45,026
And that's the way it is.
547
00:26:45,028 --> 00:26:47,429
The bohemian club
is still active today,
548
00:26:47,431 --> 00:26:51,016
Planning who knows
what, because remember,
549
00:26:51,018 --> 00:26:54,737
What happens in the
grove stays in the grove.
550
00:26:56,090 --> 00:26:58,841
To date, bohemian grove
has a several decades long
551
00:26:58,843 --> 00:27:01,026
Waiting list for admission.
552
00:27:01,028 --> 00:27:02,953
Wonder when I'll get my invite?
553
00:27:03,864 --> 00:27:05,180
But I digress.
554
00:27:05,182 --> 00:27:08,751
Talking owls might seem tame
compared to this next ritual
555
00:27:08,753 --> 00:27:13,613
Performed by members of another
powerful secret society.
556
00:27:13,615 --> 00:27:16,475
(dark atmospheric music)
557
00:27:16,477 --> 00:27:20,804
- Founded in 1832, skull and
bones will become the first
558
00:27:20,806 --> 00:27:24,825
Of what will later be called
the "ancient eight consortium"
559
00:27:24,827 --> 00:27:27,293
Of yale's secret societies.
560
00:27:27,462 --> 00:27:29,371
(suspenseful music)
561
00:27:29,373 --> 00:27:31,523
So shrouded in secrecy
is the skull and bones
562
00:27:31,525 --> 00:27:35,485
That when two bonesmen,
george w. Bush and john kerry,
563
00:27:35,487 --> 00:27:39,047
Run against each other in the
2004 presidential election,
564
00:27:39,049 --> 00:27:41,383
The media pestered
them constantly on
565
00:27:41,385 --> 00:27:43,143
"what was it like in
the skull and bones?"
566
00:27:43,145 --> 00:27:45,153
And zip.
Mum's the word.
567
00:27:45,155 --> 00:27:48,056
Neither of them say a
single thing about it.
568
00:27:48,926 --> 00:27:50,817
- [dan] another thing
they're keeping in the vault,
569
00:27:50,819 --> 00:27:55,096
The secret society's
unusual initiation ritual.
570
00:27:55,098 --> 00:27:56,656
- To become a member
of skull and bones,
571
00:27:56,658 --> 00:28:01,828
It all begins with a ritual
that takes place every spring
572
00:28:01,830 --> 00:28:04,056
And is known as "tap night."
573
00:28:04,058 --> 00:28:06,833
The men dress up in their suits
574
00:28:06,835 --> 00:28:09,186
And they stand
there and they wait.
575
00:28:10,297 --> 00:28:12,881
- Literally, someone
will come up behind them,
576
00:28:12,883 --> 00:28:15,667
Tap them on the
shoulder and say,
577
00:28:15,669 --> 00:28:17,936
"skull and bones.
Do you accept?"
578
00:28:17,938 --> 00:28:21,281
- [dan] and if you say yes,
you're led to an ominous looking
579
00:28:21,283 --> 00:28:23,458
Building called "the tomb,"
580
00:28:23,460 --> 00:28:27,112
And are henceforth
known as a neophyte.
581
00:28:28,206 --> 00:28:31,750
- From the first moment that
the neophyte enters the tomb,
582
00:28:31,752 --> 00:28:34,302
He's greeted by two members,
583
00:28:34,304 --> 00:28:37,089
A bag is placed over his head.
584
00:28:38,400 --> 00:28:43,295
- They are surrounded by
figures in various macabre garb,
585
00:28:43,297 --> 00:28:45,931
Including that of
the devil himself.
586
00:28:45,933 --> 00:28:50,085
They are then compelled to
strip bare their clothing
587
00:28:50,087 --> 00:28:55,232
And physically wrestle
with other neophytes.
588
00:28:57,160 --> 00:28:59,294
- [dan] after all the
tapping, beating, stripping,
589
00:28:59,296 --> 00:29:03,657
And wrestling, the initiate
meets his maker, sort of.
590
00:29:04,976 --> 00:29:08,069
- They make you lie
in a coffin, naked,
591
00:29:08,071 --> 00:29:09,513
In front of everyone,
592
00:29:09,515 --> 00:29:12,583
And then offer up a
detailed recounting
593
00:29:12,585 --> 00:29:14,668
Of your sexual history.
594
00:29:16,497 --> 00:29:20,432
- They then read
the oath of secrecy
595
00:29:20,434 --> 00:29:24,744
And they drink a
red, viscous fluid
596
00:29:24,746 --> 00:29:29,057
That's supposed to be blood
from an upended skull.
597
00:29:30,494 --> 00:29:34,830
Afterwards, the pledge
is slapped in the face
598
00:29:34,832 --> 00:29:36,531
With the devil's tail.
599
00:29:36,533 --> 00:29:37,733
(smack)
600
00:29:39,444 --> 00:29:40,544
- To wrap it all up,
601
00:29:40,546 --> 00:29:43,822
He kneels before a person
dressed as the pope.
602
00:29:44,942 --> 00:29:49,461
The pope is seated in a
chair in full pope garb.
603
00:29:49,463 --> 00:29:52,297
On his left foot, there
is a white slipper,
604
00:29:52,299 --> 00:29:55,784
And that foot is resting
on a human skull.
605
00:29:55,786 --> 00:30:00,889
The initiate walks up,
kisses the foot of the pope,
606
00:30:00,891 --> 00:30:03,475
And at that moment,
becomes a bonesman.
607
00:30:03,477 --> 00:30:06,695
They are now a member
of the skull and bones.
608
00:30:06,697 --> 00:30:08,463
- [dan] if drinking
blood and foot kissing
609
00:30:08,465 --> 00:30:10,382
Doesn't sound like your thing,
610
00:30:10,384 --> 00:30:13,435
Membership does
have its privileges.
611
00:30:13,437 --> 00:30:15,354
- Apparently, if
you're a bonesman,
612
00:30:15,356 --> 00:30:18,357
You get thousands of
dollars upon graduation,
613
00:30:18,359 --> 00:30:22,027
Access to mansions and
different buildings
614
00:30:22,029 --> 00:30:24,162
Around the country,
around the world,
615
00:30:24,164 --> 00:30:28,157
And some of the most powerful
people in american history
616
00:30:28,159 --> 00:30:31,053
Have been members
of skull and bones.
617
00:30:31,055 --> 00:30:33,455
(dramatic whoosh)
618
00:30:36,501 --> 00:30:38,577
- Health rituals are a
part of our everyday lives.
619
00:30:38,579 --> 00:30:39,836
Catch a cold?
620
00:30:39,838 --> 00:30:42,338
Eat chicken noodle soup
and pop a few aspirin.
621
00:30:42,340 --> 00:30:43,899
Works like a charm.
622
00:30:43,901 --> 00:30:45,825
But 400 years ago,
one british king
623
00:30:45,827 --> 00:30:48,344
Embraces a different
healing ritual,
624
00:30:48,346 --> 00:30:52,173
One in which the cure might
be worse than the disease.
625
00:30:52,684 --> 00:30:55,227
(suspenseful music)
626
00:30:55,229 --> 00:30:58,096
- King charles ii
knows how to party.
627
00:30:58,098 --> 00:31:02,067
By golly, he makes sure to
have as much fun as you can fit
628
00:31:02,069 --> 00:31:03,569
Into one lifespan.
629
00:31:04,989 --> 00:31:08,773
- He has multiple mistresses,
630
00:31:08,775 --> 00:31:11,626
12 illegitimate children.
631
00:31:11,628 --> 00:31:16,464
He also is consuming
delicacies left and right,
632
00:31:16,466 --> 00:31:21,962
Fatty, rich meats and delicious
wines, day in and day out.
633
00:31:22,989 --> 00:31:25,006
- [dan] the king's
party boy lifestyle
634
00:31:25,008 --> 00:31:26,775
Finally gets the better of him
635
00:31:26,777 --> 00:31:29,720
And he falls victim
to gout and a stroke.
636
00:31:30,614 --> 00:31:31,796
- He wants something to make him
637
00:31:31,798 --> 00:31:33,314
Feel better after his stroke,
638
00:31:33,316 --> 00:31:37,135
And so he decides that the
most incredible thing he can do
639
00:31:37,137 --> 00:31:39,729
Is choose an almost
magical implement
640
00:31:39,731 --> 00:31:41,982
Called "goddard's drops."
641
00:31:43,551 --> 00:31:46,128
- [dan] created by
physician jonathan goddard,
642
00:31:46,130 --> 00:31:47,796
The drops are a strange tincture
643
00:31:47,798 --> 00:31:50,799
Containing a most
unusual ingredient.
644
00:31:50,801 --> 00:31:52,784
(pulsing suspenseful music)
645
00:31:52,786 --> 00:31:54,986
- These aren't just any drops.
646
00:31:54,988 --> 00:32:00,142
These drops contain up to
five pounds in one batch
647
00:32:00,144 --> 00:32:02,677
Of crushed human skulls.
648
00:32:02,679 --> 00:32:05,930
(haunting music)
649
00:32:05,932 --> 00:32:08,750
- [dan] charles ii's doctors
begin ritualistically
650
00:32:08,752 --> 00:32:11,853
Administering goddard's
drops to him every day.
651
00:32:11,855 --> 00:32:15,507
- King charles ii becomes
so enamored of his drops
652
00:32:15,509 --> 00:32:20,862
That he ultimately buys the
formula for 6,000 pounds,
653
00:32:21,649 --> 00:32:24,590
Which roughly translates to
half a million in today's money.
654
00:32:24,592 --> 00:32:27,869
At that point, they stop
being "goddard's drops"
655
00:32:27,871 --> 00:32:30,989
And they start being
called "the king's drops."
656
00:32:30,991 --> 00:32:32,207
- It doesn't actually cure him.
657
00:32:32,209 --> 00:32:33,659
In fact, there's
some suggestion that,
658
00:32:33,661 --> 00:32:38,830
Because his physicians are
giving him 40 drops a day
659
00:32:38,832 --> 00:32:40,932
As he's ailing at
the end of his life,
660
00:32:40,934 --> 00:32:43,351
That it's probably the
drops that hastened
661
00:32:43,353 --> 00:32:46,145
His final end in 1685.
662
00:32:46,147 --> 00:32:48,173
(dramatic music)
663
00:32:49,551 --> 00:32:52,260
- [dan] next up, another
17th century ritual
664
00:32:52,262 --> 00:32:54,479
That involves
ingesting something
665
00:32:54,481 --> 00:32:58,550
That sounds a little
more appealing, at first.
666
00:32:58,552 --> 00:32:59,984
(suspenseful music)
667
00:32:59,986 --> 00:33:03,555
- The salem witch trials truly
begin with erratic behavior,
668
00:33:03,557 --> 00:33:05,557
Showed on the part
of a few young women,
669
00:33:05,559 --> 00:33:08,877
In particular, a young woman
known as elizabeth paris,
670
00:33:08,879 --> 00:33:11,238
More commonly known as betty.
671
00:33:12,074 --> 00:33:14,549
- Betty and several
other young girls
672
00:33:14,551 --> 00:33:17,994
Are suffering convulsions
and acting erratically,
673
00:33:17,996 --> 00:33:21,990
And everything is
going wrong in salem.
674
00:33:23,035 --> 00:33:25,593
- Betty is examined by the
local doctor, william griggs,
675
00:33:25,595 --> 00:33:28,580
Who can't find anything
physically wrong with her.
676
00:33:28,582 --> 00:33:32,092
That's when they decide
it has to be witchcraft.
677
00:33:33,695 --> 00:33:37,239
- Enter the paris family's
neighbor, mary sibley,
678
00:33:37,241 --> 00:33:39,141
Who believes she has the answer.
679
00:33:40,969 --> 00:33:42,060
A witch cake.
680
00:33:42,863 --> 00:33:44,162
- Mary sibley's cake
681
00:33:44,164 --> 00:33:46,614
Is a little bit different
than your average cake.
682
00:33:46,616 --> 00:33:51,177
It's rye, it's ashes,
something personal of betty's,
683
00:33:51,179 --> 00:33:54,363
And then there's
one last ingredient,
684
00:33:54,365 --> 00:33:56,516
A dash of betty's urine.
685
00:33:56,518 --> 00:33:58,726
(mysterious pulsing music)
686
00:33:58,728 --> 00:34:02,130
- [dan] that last ingredient
isn't the icing on the cake,
687
00:34:02,132 --> 00:34:05,584
It's the key to making
the dough do its thing.
688
00:34:06,194 --> 00:34:07,561
- That is right.
689
00:34:07,563 --> 00:34:11,606
You have to take the urine
of the affected individual
690
00:34:11,608 --> 00:34:14,342
And then mix it in
with this rye flour,
691
00:34:14,344 --> 00:34:17,361
And then you bake a cake that
kind of looks a little bit
692
00:34:17,363 --> 00:34:19,314
Like this ball
with spikes on it.
693
00:34:19,316 --> 00:34:24,235
- And when baked, it has to
be fed to something particular
694
00:34:24,237 --> 00:34:26,638
To figure out if
betty is a witch,
695
00:34:26,640 --> 00:34:27,889
And that's something particular
696
00:34:27,891 --> 00:34:30,716
Is the paris's family dog.
697
00:34:30,718 --> 00:34:33,070
(dog barking)
poor dog.
698
00:34:35,148 --> 00:34:38,633
- The folk belief
around this witch's cake
699
00:34:38,635 --> 00:34:44,005
Is that feeding it to a
dog will induce in the dog
700
00:34:44,732 --> 00:34:48,543
The same symptoms that are
displayed by the accused witch.
701
00:34:50,022 --> 00:34:53,665
- More bizarre still
is that the dog
702
00:34:53,667 --> 00:34:56,943
Is meant to fall into a trance
703
00:34:56,945 --> 00:35:02,516
And then somehow, dog speaks
and says the name of the witch.
704
00:35:02,951 --> 00:35:04,175
(dog barking)
705
00:35:04,177 --> 00:35:06,177
- I bet all of the girls
in the village named ruth
706
00:35:06,179 --> 00:35:09,372
Were probably pretty nervous
at this point in time.
707
00:35:10,233 --> 00:35:13,276
- [dan] after the paris
family dog has eaten the cake,
708
00:35:13,278 --> 00:35:17,096
The results are in, and
as for betty's fate?
709
00:35:17,098 --> 00:35:18,657
- Betty paris gets off.
710
00:35:18,659 --> 00:35:21,076
Her dog does not rat her out.
711
00:35:21,929 --> 00:35:22,935
- In this particular instance,
712
00:35:22,937 --> 00:35:26,147
The witch cake ritual
doesn't definitively
713
00:35:26,149 --> 00:35:29,868
Mark out a specific
person as a witch.
714
00:35:29,870 --> 00:35:33,779
- Over the next year,
the witch's cake
715
00:35:33,781 --> 00:35:36,966
Is considered a
valid tool of justice
716
00:35:36,968 --> 00:35:40,528
And serves as a device
of mass hysteria
717
00:35:40,530 --> 00:35:43,898
To point fingers at
increasing numbers of victims.
718
00:35:44,642 --> 00:35:48,353
- That's one cake I do
not want the recipe for.
719
00:35:48,355 --> 00:35:50,296
Next up, some hygiene rituals
720
00:35:50,298 --> 00:35:53,400
That promise a different
kind of transformation.
721
00:35:55,945 --> 00:35:57,487
- We all have our
morning rituals.
722
00:35:57,489 --> 00:35:59,314
For some of us,
it's a hot shower.
723
00:35:59,316 --> 00:36:01,240
For others, a quick
wash of the face.
724
00:36:01,242 --> 00:36:02,975
Some can only manage
to brush their teeth
725
00:36:02,977 --> 00:36:04,736
Before getting out the door.
726
00:36:04,738 --> 00:36:06,721
The citizens of ancient rome,
727
00:36:06,723 --> 00:36:11,376
They like mouthwash,
and the go-to flavor?
728
00:36:11,378 --> 00:36:14,938
Well let's just say it's
not cinnamon or mint.
729
00:36:14,940 --> 00:36:17,591
(pulsing ambient music)
730
00:36:17,593 --> 00:36:19,050
- If you're living
in ancient rome
731
00:36:19,052 --> 00:36:22,053
And you want the freshest
of breath to start the day,
732
00:36:22,055 --> 00:36:24,605
Why not grab the finest cup
733
00:36:24,607 --> 00:36:27,016
Of urine, swish it around,
734
00:36:27,018 --> 00:36:29,093
And gargle and spit?
735
00:36:29,705 --> 00:36:31,079
- [dan] as wild as it sounds,
736
00:36:31,081 --> 00:36:34,749
This very strange and very
natural teeth cleaning agent
737
00:36:34,751 --> 00:36:37,936
Actually works really well.
738
00:36:37,938 --> 00:36:41,530
- Should you distill
urine for long enough,
739
00:36:41,532 --> 00:36:43,349
It can become ammonia.
740
00:36:43,460 --> 00:36:45,951
Mix it with water and voila,
741
00:36:45,953 --> 00:36:48,696
A not necessarily palatable,
742
00:36:48,698 --> 00:36:51,290
But a very functional
teeth-whitening,
743
00:36:51,292 --> 00:36:53,609
Teeth-preserving agent.
744
00:36:53,611 --> 00:36:56,487
- [dan] the ritual
becomes so popular, in fact,
745
00:36:56,489 --> 00:36:57,789
That it turns into big business
746
00:36:57,791 --> 00:37:00,574
For urine collectors
throughout the eternal city.
747
00:37:00,576 --> 00:37:03,094
- When you walk
through public spaces,
748
00:37:03,096 --> 00:37:05,797
There are pots
that you can go to
749
00:37:05,799 --> 00:37:08,316
To relieve yourself
if necessary.
750
00:37:08,318 --> 00:37:10,060
- They are turned
into ammonia over time
751
00:37:10,062 --> 00:37:13,872
And redistributed out and it
is quite a lucrative business.
752
00:37:13,874 --> 00:37:17,383
- So popular does the
urine mouthwash become
753
00:37:17,385 --> 00:37:21,237
That the government
puts a tax on urine.
754
00:37:21,331 --> 00:37:23,615
Imagine that, a pee tax.
755
00:37:25,202 --> 00:37:27,226
- [dan] it even coins
a turn of phrase
756
00:37:27,228 --> 00:37:30,354
That somehow has a
positive connotation.
757
00:37:30,356 --> 00:37:31,823
- Today, if you go to rome
758
00:37:31,825 --> 00:37:35,009
And you see somebody with
exceptionally white teeth,
759
00:37:35,011 --> 00:37:37,678
There is a common saying, I
don't know what in italian,
760
00:37:37,680 --> 00:37:40,507
But it translates to,
"you're full of piss."
761
00:37:41,777 --> 00:37:44,519
- I'll stick to regular
mouthwash, thanks.
762
00:37:44,521 --> 00:37:47,739
But if you're still looking
for natural self-care trends,
763
00:37:47,741 --> 00:37:50,091
There's a new one
to get you to relax,
764
00:37:50,093 --> 00:37:52,501
But it's not for the squeamish.
765
00:37:52,503 --> 00:37:54,737
(bubbling electronic music)
766
00:37:54,739 --> 00:37:57,515
- I've been to a fair
few spas in my life
767
00:37:57,517 --> 00:37:59,700
And they are very ritualistic,
768
00:37:59,702 --> 00:38:02,353
But I've never
had this one done.
769
00:38:02,355 --> 00:38:03,554
(snakes hissing)
770
00:38:03,556 --> 00:38:06,841
- Instead of a massage
therapist laying hands on you,
771
00:38:06,843 --> 00:38:12,163
You instead have snakes
placed upon your body
772
00:38:13,033 --> 00:38:18,169
And their whole job is to crawl
and slither over your body
773
00:38:18,905 --> 00:38:19,954
As you lay there.
774
00:38:19,956 --> 00:38:21,289
(snakes hissing)
775
00:38:21,291 --> 00:38:24,216
- And contrary to
popular misconception,
776
00:38:24,218 --> 00:38:25,701
Snakes are not slimy,
777
00:38:25,703 --> 00:38:27,987
And the reason this
might actually feel good
778
00:38:27,989 --> 00:38:30,323
Is that snakes are
very muscular animals,
779
00:38:30,325 --> 00:38:33,217
So simply placing
them on your body,
780
00:38:33,219 --> 00:38:35,703
They are gonna be
just sort of clinging
781
00:38:35,705 --> 00:38:37,188
And moving around a little bit,
782
00:38:37,190 --> 00:38:39,707
And that motion, you
know, maybe it can be
783
00:38:39,709 --> 00:38:41,317
Kind of therapeutic and work out
784
00:38:41,319 --> 00:38:43,403
Some of the tension
in your muscles.
785
00:38:44,614 --> 00:38:48,199
- [dan] so where can one go
to get said snake massage?
786
00:38:48,201 --> 00:38:51,578
- It's become very popular
in thailand, in russia,
787
00:38:51,580 --> 00:38:53,687
And in fact, even
in new york city,
788
00:38:53,689 --> 00:38:56,982
You can pay $300 an
hour to be embraced
789
00:38:56,984 --> 00:38:58,317
By a boa constrictor.
790
00:38:58,319 --> 00:39:00,086
(calming new age music)
791
00:39:00,088 --> 00:39:02,838
- You can get one of
these snake massages,
792
00:39:02,840 --> 00:39:08,603
Which is led by a snake
handler dubbed "serpent tessa."
793
00:39:08,889 --> 00:39:10,846
People who do this ritual
794
00:39:10,848 --> 00:39:13,975
Claim that it lowers
their blood pressure.
795
00:39:13,977 --> 00:39:16,561
Some claim that it even
lessens their anxiety.
796
00:39:16,563 --> 00:39:18,646
Some even say that it helps them
797
00:39:18,648 --> 00:39:22,016
To overcome their
fear of snakes.
798
00:39:22,018 --> 00:39:25,269
- [dan] although serpent
tessa's snakes sound scary,
799
00:39:25,271 --> 00:39:28,364
There is a skincare ritual
that can suck the life
800
00:39:28,366 --> 00:39:31,576
Right out of you, or
at least the color.
801
00:39:31,861 --> 00:39:34,295
(suspenseful music)
802
00:39:34,297 --> 00:39:38,733
- Bloodletting, the practice
of letting out blood
803
00:39:38,735 --> 00:39:42,770
In order to help the body
rejuvenate its defenses,
804
00:39:42,772 --> 00:39:45,123
Get rid of infections,
805
00:39:45,125 --> 00:39:48,075
It's been used for
thousands of years.
806
00:39:48,887 --> 00:39:51,388
- [dan] in the 16th century,
european women find a way
807
00:39:51,390 --> 00:39:55,483
To use bloodletting to
make a fashion statement.
808
00:39:55,485 --> 00:39:58,486
- You've probably seen paintings
of 16th century noblewomen
809
00:39:58,488 --> 00:40:01,822
And they have these wonderfully
powder white complexions.
810
00:40:01,824 --> 00:40:03,299
There's a reason for that.
811
00:40:03,301 --> 00:40:04,358
It turns out,
812
00:40:04,360 --> 00:40:07,052
Bloodletting can be used
for cosmetic purposes.
813
00:40:07,054 --> 00:40:10,281
And how are you going to get
the blood out of your face
814
00:40:10,283 --> 00:40:11,666
To make it pale like that?
815
00:40:11,668 --> 00:40:15,494
Well, you're going to elicit
the help of some friends.
816
00:40:15,496 --> 00:40:19,374
(atmospheric music)
817
00:40:19,376 --> 00:40:22,243
- Simply the temporary
application of a leech,
818
00:40:22,245 --> 00:40:25,547
Let it suck your blood for
a bit, and then take it off.
819
00:40:26,608 --> 00:40:29,767
- Leeches have three jaws
and over a hundred teeth,
820
00:40:29,769 --> 00:40:33,454
So they are the perfect
thing to suck the blood,
821
00:40:33,456 --> 00:40:36,699
To suck the color,
directly from your face.
822
00:40:36,701 --> 00:40:38,342
- [dan] and where do
they get these leeches?
823
00:40:38,344 --> 00:40:41,679
Let's just say a lot of
rich aristocratic women
824
00:40:41,681 --> 00:40:43,565
Suddenly take up gardening.
825
00:40:45,652 --> 00:40:48,119
- You've got noblewomen
pinning them on
826
00:40:48,121 --> 00:40:51,280
Behind their ears,
to their neck,
827
00:40:51,282 --> 00:40:53,107
Generally places
where, you know,
828
00:40:53,109 --> 00:40:55,784
The scar wouldn't be too much.
829
00:40:55,786 --> 00:40:57,295
- [dan] if you
think leech facials
830
00:40:57,297 --> 00:41:00,198
Are a vestige of
16th century europe,
831
00:41:00,200 --> 00:41:02,208
Well, you won't believe this.
832
00:41:03,402 --> 00:41:05,502
(playful music)
833
00:41:05,504 --> 00:41:07,538
- You can actually
get a leech facial today
834
00:41:07,540 --> 00:41:08,539
If you wanted to.
835
00:41:08,541 --> 00:41:11,300
- For $200, you can
go to a specialist
836
00:41:11,302 --> 00:41:14,712
Who will take a leech,
attach it under your chin,
837
00:41:14,714 --> 00:41:18,157
And then ultimately rub
both the extracted blood
838
00:41:18,159 --> 00:41:21,869
And the leech secretions
into and around your face.
839
00:41:21,871 --> 00:41:24,981
Supposedly, it gives
you a lovely glow.
840
00:41:27,318 --> 00:41:31,679
- These unusual rituals
reveal many interesting things
841
00:41:31,681 --> 00:41:33,147
About us humans.
842
00:41:33,149 --> 00:41:35,240
Some of them might seem strange,
843
00:41:35,242 --> 00:41:37,393
Others downright terrifying,
844
00:41:37,395 --> 00:41:41,122
But all of them are
truly unbelievable.
845
00:41:41,202 --> 00:41:43,202
>>>>oakislandtk<<<<<
www.opensubtitles.org
846
00:41:43,252 --> 00:41:47,802
Repair and Synchronization by
Easy Subtitles Synchronizer 1.0.0.0
67019
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get subtitles in any language from opensubtitles.com, and translate them here.