Tolera, Assefa (PhD)Jaleta, Mulugeta2018-06-252023-11-042018-06-252023-11-042017-06http://etd.aau.edu.et/handle/123456789/3228The aim of this thesis is to investigate and identify the Oromo Indigenous Religion (IR)-Waaqeffannaa link to natural environment (Land and forest), and its values in all aspects of Guji Oromo life, in the anthropological lens. In this study, the what, where and why Waaqeffannaa persistently deep-rooted in to the daily life of Guji-Oromo and their amicable co-existence with nature have been discussed and analyzed. The study employed qualitative research approach with ethnographic research design, because of the nature of the identified research problem, that peoples’ experience in the environment, and belief system and practices to be studied. The actual study participants have been selected by means of non-probability sampling method, from Adola Redde and Girja districts. Purposive sampling has been employed in this study, because, the relevant respondents from the target group have been selected carefully, by the researcher, to get reliable and rich data. Ethical issues strongly respected. Detailed interview, Focused group discussion, Observation, Informal conversation and Document review are data gathering tools employed. The sample size of this study depends on the saturation of data collected. Data collection and organizations took place in August and September 2016, while interpretation, and analysis took place in October to December 2016. Girja and Adola Redde Districts have been identified as study population due to their potential resource fullness which is useful to this study. This study argued that Indigenous Religion (IR) -Waaqeffannaa contributed to the existence and preservation of natural environment, which in turn, natural environment has contributed for the existence of conducive conditions for all lives both human and non-human nature in that area. As a result people of the area enjoyed diversified livelihoods due to favorable climatic conditions. Waaqeffannaa link with nature is more of spiritual and socio-economical in nature. Therefore, there is lesson to learn from ancestors that this study found and more studies recommended to be conducted for more lesson. Key words: Abba Gada, Gada System, Waaqa, Waaqeffannaa, Guji-Oromo, Balli, Qallu, Ardaa-JilaaenAbba GadaGada SystemGuji OromoWaaqeffannaaArdaa JilaaThesis