Constructing Human Integrity in the Perspective of Sunda Wiwitan Religious Ethics

Abstract

This paper examines human integrity from the perspective of local religion of Sunda Wiwitan in Cigugur, Kuningan, West Java, Indonesia. We collected research data  using qualitative research strategies through in-depth interviews, participant  observation, and literature research. The complexity of humanity is explored and  internalized by various groups, including indigenous peoples. Human integrity occurs when there is unity between the physical and spiritual aspects. The physicaland spiritual aspects of a healthy and harmonious human being are a marker for humanity that is human (homo humanum) and even has a divine dimension (homo religious). The core of the construction of human integrity in the Sunda Wiwitan Religious Ethics is when there is an attitude of “silih”, or “saling”, i.e, reciprocated acts of kindness toward each other. This attitude is further described as an attitude or behavior of making each other fragrant or silih wangi. This means that humans (must) protect each other’s reputation and do well to others, and that they are motivated to eliminate each other’s weaknesses or shortcomings; humans show themutual behavior of silih asah (meaning that humans educate one another, are willing to share knowledge, understanding, and skills); humans show a mutual caring behavior or silih asuh (humans protect one another, give to each other, help each other in need and distress); humans love one another or showing the behavior of silih asih. This local wisdom related to Sunda Wiwitan humanism is increasingly relevant for today’s global society in reflecting on the meaning and essence of humanity.