Teju Jagua

Teju Jagua is a traditional game originating from the indigenous Toba people of the Gran Chaco region in South America, particularly in areas of Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay. The game is played with a small, hard ball made from the seeds of the teju tree (Ziziphus mistol), hence the name "Teju Jagua," which translates to "ball of the jaguar" in the Toba language. The game holds significant cultural importance and is often played during communal gatherings and festivals. In Hebrew, it can be translated as טֶה-ז'וּגָה, though the term is not widely recognized outside of its native context. The game is similar to lacrosse or field hockey, involving teams that use sticks to hit the ball into the opponent's goal. The rules and playing style can vary between different indigenous groups, but the game generally emphasizes agility, teamwork, and strategic play. Teju Jagua is not only a sport but also a cultural practice that reinforces community bonds and traditional values among the Toba people.