Nature as Sacred Text

An Ecological Dialogue Between The Bible and Pikukuh Sunda Wiwitan of the Baduy

Abstract

Before the arrival of religions are that associated with sacred texts, such as Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity, Indonesia originally had its own indigenous belief systems. However, these local beliefs have been increasingly marginalized with the arrival of religions from other countries. Their existence has been further suppressed as they are often considered as “deviant”. These indigenous beliefs are also typically characterized by the absence of written scriptures. Nevertheless, they possess life guidelines that function similarly to sacred texts. Ironically, these marginalized belief systems often hold profound values, particularly in their deep concern for nature. In contrast, biblical interpretations have frequently led to justification for actions that exploit the environment. One of the indigenous belief systems that still exists today is Sunda Wiwitan Baduy. The teachings of Sunda Wiwitan Baduy emphasize environmental conservation, to the extent that nature itself can be regarded as their sacred text. Although Sunda Wiwitan Baduy is known for lacking written scriptures, it adheres to Pikukuh, a set of ancestral life principles. Despite being unwritten, Pikukuh serves a role similar to that of sacred texts in other religions, such as the Bible and the Quran. The Pikukuh teachings, which prioritize environmental preservation over human profit, should serve as a lesson for us to critically reflect on the sacred texts we believe in. Inspired by the Pikukuh of Sunda Wiwitan Baduy, biblical interpretation should also be grounded in an awareness of nature’s existence. Sacred texts should promote peace for all living beings.