Although most Indonesians are Muslim, many also follow animist beliefs and worship ancient spirits, especially in central Java province.

Often at full moons, they trek to crater rims and throw in rice, jewelry and live animals to appease the volcano.

"All the things we are doing here are to try to make us safe," said Assize Ashore, an Islamic preacher who also took part in the ceremony. "Only Allah knows if Merapi will explode."

http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1145961340581&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull