A Representation of Eco-Theology in Toba Batak Society, Indonesia

Abstract

Objective: The Toba Batak people in Indonesia have poems that tell about their belief in the natural environment. Sitor Situmorang is a great Indonesian poet from Batak Toba. This study aims to represent the eco-theology of the Toba Batak community as stated in the mystical poems of Sitor Situmorang. Method: This research is qualitative research using ethnographic approaches and interactive models for data analysis techniques. Qualitative research focuses on an in-depth understanding of human behavior, beliefs, and interactions, often by gathering rich narrative details. The ethnographic approach involves researchers who dive directly into the community or context under study to observe and interpret cultural phenomena. Interactive models in data analysis techniques refer to the continuous cycle of data collection, analysis, and interpretation to refine theory and understanding iteratively. Results: The results showed that the natural environment is believed to be controlled by Debata Mulajadi Nabolon and Si Boru Deakparujar (God of Earth, Land, Forest) who taught their descendants to care for the earth and its contents. The Toba Batak people consider land, water, and forests inseparable from human life. Sitor Situmorang's mystical poems became transformative literature used to explore awareness of the natural environment through an ecological vision of human existence in harmony with nature. Conclusions: The belief of the Toba Batak people in Debata Mulajadi Nabolon and Si Boru Deakparujar influenced their views on the importance of maintaining harmony with nature. The mystical poems of Sitor Situmorang are recognized as literary works that play a role in making people aware of the importance of ecological vision and human survival side by side with nature.