As long as a person lives on the land of his group he maintains his membership. It is possible to hunt on lands not owned by the group, but permission must first be obtained by the owners. San religions generally observe the supremacy of one powerful god, while at the same time recognizing the presence of lesser gods along with their wives and children. Respect is also paid to the spirits of the dead. Among some San it is believed that tilling the soil is contrary to the world order established by the god.
Some groups also reserve reverence for the moon.
San peoples have extensive oral traditions, and many of their tales incorporate stories about the gods that serve to educate listeners about what is considered moral San behavior. Of prime importance in all San groups is a ritual dance that serves to heal the community. The dance is a communal enterprise that transforms spiritual power and energy into medicine for all those who dance. The power is harnessed in the stomachs of both men and women, many of whom go into trance. This power can be used to heal both physical and psychological illnesses.