Journal of Asian Orientation in Theology
Vol 8, No 1 (2026): Journal of Asian Orientation in Theology

Sweron as a Model for Integral Ecological Education in Papua: a Contextual Theological Study

Yulko, Yulianus Korain (Unknown)
Bame, Athanasius (Unknown)
Wijanarko, Robertus (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
23 Feb 2026

Abstract

This study examines Sweron as a model of integral ecological education in Papua: a contextual theological study. Sweron is a tradition of local wisdom passed down from generation to generation by the Papuan people, especially the Maybrat tribe, which functions as an ecological, social and spiritual mechanism in maintaining a harmonious relationship between humans, nature and God. This study aims to analyse the theological meaning of Sweron and its relevance as a model of integral ecological education amid the global ecological crisis. This study uses Gadamer's hermeneutic phenomenology method. Gadamer emphasises that hermeneutics is not merely a method for interpreting texts, but rather a philosophy of understanding rooted in dialogue between the interpreter and the interpreted reality. Understanding occurs through a process of fusion of horizons, namely the horizon of the researcher and the horizon of the text/subject. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, document study, documentation, and focused discussions with the community, traditional leaders, and those with a sufficient understanding of Sweron.Data analysis was carried out by combining three main frameworks: first, contextual theology, which views Sweron as a locus theologicus; second, Laudato Si' integral ecology, which emphasises the interconnectedness of the ecological, social, and spiritual dimensions; third, religion-nature-culture, which interprets Sweron as a form of ecological spirituality. The results of the study show that Sweron not only functions as a tradition-based environmental management system, but also contains theological values that affirm humanity's moral responsibility towards nature as God's creation. Sweron represents a model of integral ecology education that is holistic, contextual, and transformative, as a form of respect for nature that needs to be studied ecotheologically. This research contributes to the development of Sweron-based eco-theology by offering a new perspective for the Indonesian eco-theological discourse and enriching the dialogue between ecology, theology and culture in a sustainable manner.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

JAOT

Publisher

Subject

Religion Humanities Social Sciences

Description

Focus Journal of Asian Orientation in Theology (JAOT) is founded and sponsored by Sanata Dharma University School of Theology. It publishes scientific and critical thoughts in Asian Theology with Contextual and interdisciplinary approaches. Scope JAOT develops contextual theological discourses in ...