Of Sacred Things, Taboos, and Orthopraxis: The concept of Lulik in East Timor

Abstract

The present article examines the uses and meanings of the concept of lulik in contemporary East Timor, based on the analysis of the concept by linguists and, especially, anthropologists. Along the anthropological axis of analysis, we take into account the concept’s definitions based on theoretical approaches rooted in Durkheimian theory and the ontological turn. In the light of a review of the literature regarding the subject, as well as the data gathered through an ethnographic case study, we evaluate the relevance of these definitions and propose an alternative interpretation. Compared to the contributions made by other authors, we propose that the Timorese understand lulik as a typification of the correct way in which relationships that involve people in the course of their social life should be conducted.

Key words:
Southeast Asia; East Timor; Sacred; Taboo; Ontic Identities