Journal of Honai Math
Vol. 9 No. 2 (2026): Journal of Honai Math

Ethnomathematics in the Tumbu Tanah dance: Geometric, rhythmic, and symbolic patterns among the Arfak people of West Papua, Indonesia

Guntur Sada (Deparment of Mathematics Education, Universitas Papua, Manokwari, Indonesia)
Jeinne Mumu (Deparment of Mathematics Education, Universitas Papua, Manokwari, Indonesia)
Andi Fajeriani Wyrasti (Deparment of Mathematics Education, Universitas Papua, Manokwari, Indonesia)
Benidiktus Tanujaya (Deparment of Mathematics Education, Universitas Papua, Manokwari, Indonesia)
Falenthino Sampouw (Deparment of Mathematics Education, Universitas Papua, Manokwari, Indonesia)
Maryo Sopater Istia (Deparment of Mathematics Education, Universitas Papua, Manokwari, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
27 Aug 2026

Abstract

Indigenous cultural practices in eastern Indonesia, particularly West Papua, remain underrepresented in ethnomathematics research. This study examined ethnomathematical ideas embedded in the Tumbu Tanah Dance of the Arfak people, focusing on geometric, rhythmic, and symbolic patterns manifested through embodied cultural practices. Guided by D’Ambrosio’s ethnomathematics framework and Indigenous epistemological perspectives, this qualitative ethnographic study employed participant observation, semi-structured interviews with twelve cultural elders and master performers, and visual and kinematic documentation. Data were analyzed using thematic, geometric, and movement analyses to identify mathematical ideas in the dance’s choreography, rhythm, and social organization. The findings identified three principal formations: jey/srem (linear), ikrop (semicircular), and nimot (circular), which demonstrate geometric ideas related to symmetry, rotation, curvature, and spatial proportion. Rhythmic foot-stamping patterns reflected periodicity, recursive sequencing, and temporal synchronization, while dancer arrangements based on kinship and ceremonial roles reflected grouping, partitioning, and numerical distribution. These mathematical ideas are transmitted through embodied movement, communal participation, and intergenerational cultural practices rather than formal mathematical notation. The study demonstrates that Tumbu Tanah constitutes a culturally situated context for recognizing mathematical ideas within Indigenous knowledge and offers potential for culturally responsive mathematics education and cultural heritage preservation.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jhm

Publisher

Subject

Education Mathematics Social Sciences

Description

The journal provides an international forum for the sharing, dissemination and discussion of research, experience and perspectives across a wide range of education, teaching, development, instruction, educational projects and innovations, learning methodologies and new technologies in mathematics ...