Abstract
This study reviews an indigenous religious practice, Sunda Wiwitan, in Indonesia. Sunda Wiwitan is the local religion among the ethnic people of the Western part of Java. They believe in Sang Hyang Karsa (One and the Only God) as the Creator of the universe, who forms Adam as the first human being as their forefather. Its concept and teachings are not just in the understanding of epistemology but have become a mindset, behavior, and relationship with others, nature, and the Creator, which is ingrained in society today. This understanding leads to the religious ritual of Sunda Wiwitan as the daily worship upholding the goodness value in daily activities. Therefore, this research argues that Sunda Wiwitan’s value quickens the essential teaching of religious education to help society acknowledge the Ultimate Creator through rituals and rites. The systematics of writing for this article are, first, the construction of Sunda Wiwitan as religion; second, the implementation of Sunda Wiwitan’s dogmatics in religious ceremonies in society; third, the impact of religious education in constructing society’s attitude and behavior through rituals and rites; and fourth, how is the vulnerability of Sunda Wiwitan’s value in sustaining and imparting religious education. All resources in this research are based on primary sources: books, journal articles, academic writings, and old manuscripts. The problem statement of this research is discussed using the critical thinking method and qualitative approach.
Presenters
Halim WiryadinataLecturer, Theology, Universitas Kristen Indonesia, Jakarta Raya, Indonesia
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2025 Special Focus—Fragile Meanings: Vulnerability in the Study of Religions and Spirituality
KEYWORDS
Sunda Wiwitan, Indigenous Religious Practice, Religious Education, Vulnerability of Sunda
