the Role of Religion in Papuan Culture – As you already know, Indonesia is a country based on the principle of “Belief in the One and Only God”, which requires its entire people to embrace a religion,
Be it Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity, Catholicism, and so on. Then, what is the role of religion in Papuan culture? Is it related or not?
The Role of Religion in Papuan Culture
The sociocultural structure of the Papuan people is built on the idea of “one hearth of three stones,” or “stone,” which refers to the three pillars of government, custom, and religion.
Additionally, the three religions of Islam, Christianity, and Catholicism are sometimes linked to three stones.
The educational model that is used is a crucial part in maintaining this principle, particularly when it comes to creating a harmonious life.
The ideas of unity and brotherhood founded on humanity are passed down and taught to future generations in Papua through education.
In addition, both culture and religion play an important role in the social life of Papuans.
The cultural approach itself was carried out by missionaries by translating the Bible into regional languages, thus the development of religion became faster.
How the Papuan Take a Cultural and Religious Approach?
There are many culture in Papua and it is one of the areas that has maintained its cultural heritage to this day.
The journey of every religion in this region cannot be separated from the culture that the people uphold. Then, how do the Papuans approach this culture and religion?
1. Education
The role of education is of course very large in combining the two so that it can be easily understood by the next generation in Papua.
Through a variety of means, particularly through education, this cultural perspective is still being transmitted. So that it is easier for people to understand and apply.
Ikhsan Tanggok, an anthropologist, claims that in Papua, tolerance and religious peace are a part of everyday life. And educational settings like schools and universities.
NU, Muhammadiyah, and Yapis are three Islamic educational institutes. That play a significant part in promoting peace and tolerance in Papua.
2. Tradition
One example of Papua’s long history of tolerance is Bakar Batu.
This custom has great significance, serving both. As a way to express thankfulness to God and as a sign of unwavering unity.
Stone burning is another method of bringing peace between rival tribes. One three stone stove is a philosophy that the Fakfak people of West Papua adopted from their ancestors.
The three stones represent “you,” “me,” and “he,” who belong to diverse religions, ethnic groups. And socioeconomic classes yet are united in one brotherhood, while the furnace represents life.
The Patimburak Mosque in Patimburak Village, Fakfak, West Papua, is yet another representation of peace.
From the information above, the role of religion in Papuan culture is very big. Given that the Papuan people themselves already have strong principles in carrying out both.
To support this to continue as expected the government’s role in providing facilities and maintaining its existence is crucial.
