Abstract: Beam-fixing ritual in building traditional dwellings is the most representative ritual activity of the Dong ethnic group. It is also one of the most typical ritual activities of the Dong ethnic group’s traditional ritual culture. During the choosing of beam trees and the giving of gifts, beam-fixing ritual consists of seven sub-ritual procedures in which complicated ritual exhibition and strict rules of procedure present a comprehensive exterior representation of the traditional culture of the Dong ethnic group. Beam-fixing ritual is not only one important starting point to understand cultural logic and symbolic expression of the Dong ethnic group, but also possesses dual functions of cultural and practical rationality.

Key words: customs of the Dong ethnic group, traditional dwellings, beam fixing ritual, cultural symbols