Islam and Identity in Indonesia: The shifting role of Arabic names in Java

Since the publication of Geertz' Religion of Java in 1960, this most populous Indonesian island has experienced a pronounced upsurge in more standardized, normative varieties of Islamic practice, evident in mosques, use of headscarves, fasting, zakat tithing, pilgrimages, and daily prayers. However, analysis of linguistic data on personal names also tells a more complex story. While the bestowal of Arabic names has been steadily rising as a sign of piety, Javanese names are dramatically lengthening in ways that exhibit an exuberant tendency towards hybridization, involving Western and indigenous Javanese words. The results of this study reveal forms of identity construction that have a long history in Indonesia, and demonstrate the importance of a linguistic perspective on religion and culture.

When 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Wednesday, February 8, 2017
Building 154 Bay State Road
Room Eilts Room
Contact Name Arlene Brennan
Phone 353-9050
Contact Email cura@bu.edu
Contact Organization CURA
Fees Free
Speakers Joel C. Kuipers, Professor of Anthropology and International Affairs, The George Washington University