Locus theologicus in marine ethno-conservation: theological phenomenology of Tiyaitiki practice in papuan coastal communities

Lentera Negeri October 23, 2026 Volume 7, Number 1 3 authors

Abstract

Studies of Tiyaitiki, a customary practice among Papuan coastal communities of temporarily closing marine areas, have largely treated it as an ethno-conservation mechanism, leaving its religious dimension theologically unexamined. This epistemological gap matters because the continuity of the practice depends on the beliefs that motivate obedience to it. This article aims to show how Tiyaitiki brings forth a profound marine theology for the coastal community of Depapre District, Papua. Using a qualitative phenomenological method, we collected data in Yepase Village through questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, and a focus group discussion with participants from the customary council, the younger generation, and the church. We argue that Tiyaitiki is a locus theologicus, a place of lived experience from which theological knowledge about God, creation, and human responsibility can legitimately be drawn. The findings show that this locus yields a contextual marine theology whose ontological, cosmo-sacred, and ethical dimensions present the sea as fellow creation, as a space of divine presence, and as a ground for Christian stewardship. We conclude that Tiyaitiki strengthens the ecological spirituality of Papuan coastal communities as part of the call of faith

Authors

  1. Yane Maahury

    Sekolah Tinggi Agama Kristen Protestan Negeri Sentani

  2. Okrisye Lantaka

    Sekolah Tinggi Agama Kristen Protestan Negeri Sentani

  3. Rudolof Nerokepu

    Sekolah Tinggi Agama Kristen Protestan Negeri Sentani

Keywords

Blue theologyCustomary marine tenureEcological spiritualityLocus theologicusMarine ethno-conservationTheological phenomenologyTiyaitiki

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