Progression from the lower to the upper strata of society is accomplished through the accumulation of wealth, marked by a series of increasingly lavish rituals, feasts, sacrifices and commissioning of artifacts corresponding to the position sought or gained. Although this pursuit is an extremely costly undertaking that requires the support of kith and kin, enormous prestige and privileges are gained, including the right to wear certain ornaments and dress, to display elaborate house emblems and architectural refinements, and be buried in a particular style of coffin. By following this sytem wealth is not accumulated to excess but is restored to the community in return for privileges and honor. Competition is fierce among the aspirants as each struggles to demonstrate their munificence to the people, while with largesse and rituals they seek the support of powerful spiritual beings. Religious rites accompany every significant phase of Ifugao life and provide a means by which the unknown or unexplained can be approached and understood.
Ifugao religion is a vastly complex structure based on ancestor worship, animism and magical power.
The Ifugao pantheon consists of innumerable spiritual entities that represent natural elements, forces and phenomena in addition to ancestral and methphysical beings. The trust and confidence that the Ifugao have in these beings allow them to face what is often a complex and frightening world with a great deal of confidence and understanding. They believe that the gods and other beings are approachable and can be influenced by the proper rites and behavior to intercede on behalf of an individual or the entire community. Generally the gods are viewed as generous and benign beings who enjoy feasting, drinking wine and chewing betel nut, as do the Ifugao themselves. However, the gods are quick to anger and if ignored or treated badly can quickly become ill-tempered, demanding tyrants capable of causing misfortune and injury.