Exploring the Role of Language in Religion: Reflections on Prof. Joel C. Kuipers’ Lecture

HUMANIORA - (27/10/2023) - Professor Joel C. Kuipers, an expert in the fields of language and anthropology, recently shared his fascinating insights during a lecture organized by the Faculty of Humanities at UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang on Tuesday, October 24, 2023. In this lecture, Prof. Kuipers discussed the role of language, sacred texts, and social contexts in various societies. His personal journey through the study of language, literature, religion, and systems of authority has shaped his profound understanding of the interplay between these elements.

In his lecture, Prof. Kuipers recounted his intellectual journey, which began with the study of English language and expanded into the field of Anthropology. This transformation laid the essential foundation for his research and comprehension of the role of language in diverse societies. He described how he evolved from being a language student to a researcher who comprehends how language, literature, religion, and systems of authority interact within a society.

One interesting narrative shared by Prof. Kuipers was his experience in Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara. In the context of religion there, he noted the significant role of language and poetry. He narrated a captivating incident where a Sumba religious leader presented the heart of a slaughtered pig to the public and referred to it as their "Holy Book." This illustrates the immense significance of sacred texts in that society and how language plays a crucial role in religious rituals.

Prof. Kuipers also explained the impact of the introduction of Christianity in Sumba. Initially, the Sumba people adhered to their traditional religion, but over time, many converted to Christianity. This change also affected indigenous customs and the meanings associated with language in religious contexts. He explained that this transformation occurred after the Indonesian Communist Party (PKI) rebellion, which required Indonesian citizens to have religious affiliations. East Nusa Tenggara's residents chose Christianity, and the development of Christianity in the region grew rapidly, especially with the construction of schools during the early years of the New Order, significantly influencing the local beliefs.

During the discussion, Prof. Kuipers highlighted critical questions such as text definitions, whether texts must be intentionally created, whether texts should be coherent, and whether there is a relationship between various texts. He also questioned whether the signs within the hearts of cattle and chickens could be considered as texts in a religious context. This demonstrates the complex understanding that the Sumba people have regarding language and texts.

Prof. Kuipers also emphasized the role of linguistics in understanding sacred texts and language in a religious context. He compared Western linguistic approaches with the study of language in sacred texts and the sacred language in Sumba society, demonstrating that the Sumba people possess a profound understanding of language and texts in a religious context.

Prof. Joel C. Kuipers' lecture provides profound insights into the role of language in religion and how texts and contexts are intertwined in diverse societies. With his rich experience and deep thinking, Prof. Kuipers has offered valuable perspectives on the relationship between language, sacred texts, and social contexts. His lecture serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding how language influences beliefs and religious practices in diverse societies. [Istiadah]