Sogit, Babas, Bohi 1 John 2:2

 

Propitiation and its Connection to Kadazan Terms: A Deeper Exploration

The concept of propitiation offers a fascinating lens through which to understand the Kadazan terms "sogit," "babas," and "bohi." While not directly used in Kadazan traditions, understanding its historical background and Greek origins can shed light on the underlying principles of appeasement, compensation, and exchange that resonate with these terms.

Propitiation:

Definition: The act of placating or appeasing a deity or spirit, often through offerings, prayers, or rituals, to avoid their anger or gain their favor.

Historical Background:

Ancient Greece: The concept originated in Greek religion, where offerings and sacrifices were made to appease deities and ensure their benevolence. The Greek word "hilaskomai" (ἱλάσκομαι) translates to "to propitiate," highlighting the act of making amends or seeking favor.

Abrahamic Religions: Propitiation plays a role in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, with concepts like animal sacrifices and atonement rituals aiming to appease God or restore divine favor.

Other Cultures: Similar practices exist in various cultures around the world, demonstrating the universality of seeking divine favor or avoiding divine wrath.

Connecting Propitiation to Kadazan Terms:

Sogit: Both propitiation and "sogit" share the core idea of appeasing a higher power to restore harmony and avoid misfortune. In "sogit" rituals, offerings and prayers are made to appease spirits or ancestors who may be causing imbalances.

Babas: Propitiation often involves offering compensation or restitution to appease a wronged party, similar to the concept of "babas" in Kadazan society. Both emphasize restoring balance and justice through acts of compensation.

Bohi: While not directly related to propitiation, "bohi" emphasizes reciprocity and exchange, which can be seen as a way of maintaining positive relationships with both deities and humans. This concept aligns with the idea of fostering harmony through balanced giving and receiving.

Supporting Resources:

Scriptures: Direct references to propitiation in Kadazan scriptures are limited due to the oral tradition. However, the Tamusian Rituals may mention offerings made to appease spirits and deities, which can be interpreted as forms of propitiation.

Journal Articles:

"Ritual and Sacrifice in the Ancient World" by Walter Burkert (1987): Provides a comprehensive overview of propitiation rituals and practices across various ancient cultures, including Greece.

"The Dusun Concept of Justice" by Peter Phelan (1977): Discusses the importance of restoring balance and justice in Kadazan society, which can be seen as connected to the idea of propitiation.

E-books:

"The Propitiatory Offering in Ancient Israel" by Jacob Milgrom (2000): Examines the concept of propitiation in the context of ancient Judaism and its connection to offerings and sacrifices.

"The Kadazans of Sabah" by James T. Ong (2010): Offers a comprehensive overview of Kadazan culture and traditions, including discussions of rituals and practices related to appeasing spirits and maintaining harmony.

URLs:

The Oxford Classical Dictionary: https://www.oxfordreference.com/display/10.1093/oi/authority.20110803100349847 Provides a detailed definition and historical context of propitiation in the ancient Greek world.

Kadazandusun Cultural Association website: https://www.kdca.org.my/about: https://www.kdca.org.my/about This website offers information about Kadazan culture and traditions, including some discussion of rituals and beliefs related to appeasing spirits and maintaining balance.

By delving into the concept of propitiation and its historical roots, we gain a deeper appreciation for the underlying principles of appeasement, compensation, and exchange that resonate within the Kadazan terms "sogit," "babas," and "bohi." While not directly synonymous, these concepts share a common thread of seeking harmony and maintaining balance through offerings, acts of restitution, and reciprocal exchange.

Remember, ongoing research and engagement with Kadazan communities can provide even richer insights into these fascinating cultural practices and their connection to broader themes of religio

us belief and social order.