Book Review: Jan Sihar Aritonang A History of Christianity in Indonesia, Beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses
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| A History of Christianity in Indonesia, Beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses |
Book Review: Jan Sihar Aritonang A History of Christianity in Indonesia, Beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses
Before Buying, Better to Read the Book Review: Jan Sihar Aritonang A History of Christianity in Indonesia, Beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses by Legaproblema.com - What can we learn from a comprehensive account of Christianity journey in Indonesia, and how do the beliefs of Jehovah Witnesses fit into this narrative? The main keyword, book Jan Sihar Aritonang A History of Christianity in Indonesia, Beliefs of Jehovah Witnesses, invites us to explore two intertwined yet distinct subjects: the historical trajectory of Christianity in Indonesia and the doctrinal distinctiveness of Jehovah Witnesses within the Indonesian religious landscape.
Jan Sihar Aritonang A History of Christianity in Indonesia offers an unprecedented, scholarly panorama of Christianity growth in a predominantly Muslim nation that holds the world largest Muslim population. The book meticulously charts Christianity introduction during the Portuguese arrival in the early 16th century, its consolidation under Dutch colonial rule, and its evolution post-independence. It highlights regional variations, missionary tensions, and Muslim-Christian relations in a country where Christians constitute about 10% of the population, roughly 24 million people[2][3].
Parallel to this, the beliefs of Jehovah Witnesses, a Christian denomination known for its distinctive non-Trinitarian theology and evangelistic zeal, especially in Indonesia urban centers like Surabaya, add a fascinating layer to the religious mosaic. Their rejection of Jesus’ divinity and unique scriptural interpretations set them apart from mainstream Christianity, creating both theological debates and social challenges within Indonesian Christian communities[4].
Together, these topics provide a rich canvas to understand Christianity multifaceted history and contemporary religious dynamics in Indonesia.
Book Details
Author
Language
Publisher
Leiden and Boston
ISBN
9789004170261
Length
1004 pages
Genre
Structure and Contents – How the Book Unfolds Its Narrative
How does one tackle the vast history of Christianity in a sprawling archipelago like Indonesia? The book structure is methodical and thematic, divided into three major parts that guide the reader through time and space:
Part 1: The First Christians – Until 1800
- Christianity in pre-colonial Indonesia
- The race between Islam and Christianity (1530-1670)
- Catholic converts in the Moluccas, Minahasa, and Sangihe-Talaud (1512-1680)
- The Solor-Timor Dominican mission (1562-1800)
- Protestantism arrival and consolidation in the Moluccas (1605-1800)
Part 2: 1800-2005 – Chronological and Regional Surveys
- National overview from 1800 to 2005
- Regional studies including Southeast islands, Papua, Moluccas, Minahasa, Sulawesi, Kalimantan, Sumatra, Java, and Bali
Part 3: Issues of National Concern
- Theological thinking among Indonesian Christians (1850-2000)
- The ecumenical movement and National Council of Churches
- Growth of Evangelicals and Pentecostals
- Chinese Christian communities
- Christian art and media in Indonesia
This detailed framework allows readers to appreciate both the chronological development and the regional diversity of Christianity in Indonesia, with special attention to socio-political contexts and interfaith relations[2][3].
Strong Points –What Makes This Book Stand Out
What distinguishes A History of Christianity in Indonesia from other histories of the Christian religion? Several strengths are evident:
- Comprehensive Scope: Covering nearly 500 years of history, the book leaves few stones unturned, from early missionary efforts to modern church dynamics.
- Balanced Perspectives: The collaboration between Indonesian and European scholars, Protestants and Catholics, provides an insider-outsider balance that enriches the narrative[7].
- Regional Nuance: Unlike many histories that focus on Java or major urban centers, this book highlights Christianity strongholds in eastern Indonesia and Papua.
- Interfaith Relations: It does not shy away from discussing Muslim-Christian tensions and theological debates, crucial for understanding Indonesia religious fabric.
- Academic Rigor: With extensive bibliographies and references, it serves as an indispensable resource for scholars and students of history Christianity and Christian religion history[2][3].
Impact and Legacy – Influence on Scholarship and Faith Communities
How has this book shaped understanding of Christianity in Indonesia? Since its publication, it has become a foundational text in Southeast Asian religious studies, cited widely in academic works and used as a key reference in theological seminaries and universities.
Its impact extends beyond academia. By documenting the diversity and resilience of Christianity in a Muslim-majority nation, it fosters greater interreligious awareness and dialogue. The book detailed accounts of missionary strategies, indigenous responses, and theological developments have informed church leaders and ecumenical bodies in Indonesia.
Moreover, it provides a backdrop for understanding contemporary groups like Jehovah Witnesses, whose growth in cities like Surabaya challenges traditional Christian boundaries and prompts renewed theological reflection[4].
.jpg "Jan Sihar Aritonang A History of Christianity in Indonesia, Beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses") |
| Jan Sihar Aritonang |
Criticism – Balanced Perspectives on the Book’ Shortcomings
No scholarly work is without critique. Some readers and reviewers have noted:
- Length and Density: At over 1000 pages, the book can be daunting for general readers or those new to the subject.
- Limited Focus on New Religious Movements: While comprehensive on historic missions and denominations, it gives less attention to emerging groups like Jehovah Witnesses or Pentecostal movements in depth.
- Language and Accessibility: Its academic tone and extensive use of historical jargon may limit accessibility for lay audiences.
- Underrepresentation of Certain Regions: Although regional diversity is a strength, some critics argue that areas such as Sumatra and Bali receive less detailed treatment compared to eastern Indonesia[7].
These critiques, however, do not diminish the book overall value but suggest areas for future research and complementary studies.
Comparison with Similar Works – Contextualizing Aritonang’ Contribution
How does this book compare with other histories of Christianity? Compared to broad histories of Christianity worldwide or in Asia, Aritonang work is unique in its exclusive focus on Indonesia, providing unparalleled depth.
For example:
| Feature | Aritonang Book | General Christianity Histories | Other Regional Histories |
|---|---|---|---|
| Geographic Focus | Indonesia only | Global or continental | Other Southeast Asian countries |
| Length and Detail | Very detailed, 1000+ pages | Varies, often shorter | Varies |
| Contributors | 26 scholars, ecumenical | Usually single or few authors | Varies |
| Coverage of Muslim-Christian Relations | Extensive | Often limited | Varies |
| Attention to Modern Movements | Moderate, less on Jehovah’s Witnesses | Often broad, less regional focus | Varies |
This makes it a go-to reference for anyone researching Christianity origin and development in Indonesia, complementing general Christian religion history and origin of Christianity religion studies[1][5].
Next Subtopics
To deepen our understanding, we can explore related topics:
- History Christianity: Tracing Christianity roots from Jesus’ ministry in 1st-century Judea through its spread across the Roman Empire and beyond[5][6].
- Christian Religion History:Examining doctrinal developments, schisms, and the evolution of Christian institutions over centuries.
- Origin of Christianity & Origin of Christianity Religion: Investigating how Jewish followers of Jesus transitioned into a distinct gentile religion, with Paul missionary work playing a pivotal role[6].
- Mormon Religion Founder: Understanding Joseph Smith 19th-century founding of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a distinct Christian movement with unique scriptures and beliefs.
- Ancient Christian: Studying early Christian communities, rituals, and theological debates that shaped the faith foundation.
These topics provide broader context to the Indonesian Christian experience and the diverse expressions of Christianity worldwide.
Final Ruling – Our Verdict on This Book and Its Relevance
In sum, A History of Christianity in Indonesia by Jan Sihar Aritonang is a landmark scholarly achievement that offers an exhaustive, balanced, and richly detailed account of Christianity complex journey in Indonesia. It is essential reading for historians, theologians, and anyone interested in the interplay of religion and culture in Southeast Asia.
While its academic depth and length may challenge casual readers, the book insights into regional diversity, interfaith relations, and theological developments are invaluable. Coupled with an understanding of groups like Jehovah Witnesses, whose beliefs and growth add contemporary relevance, this work opens a window into a vibrant, often overlooked chapter of Christian history.
For those seeking to grasp the full tapestry of Christianity origin, expansion, and adaptation-both globally and within Indonesia-this book stands as a definitive resource.
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Citations
[1] https://www.jstor.org/stable/41203123
[2] https://nla.gov.au/nla.cat-vn4579772
[3] https://www.loc.gov/item/2019667360/
[4] https://www.pharosjot.com/uploads/7/1/6/3/7163688/article_21_vol_104_1__2023.pdf
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Christianity
[6] https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/biblical-topics/new-testament/the-origin-of-christianity/
[7] https://brill.com/view/journals/exch/39/1/article-p104_13.pdf
[8] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christianity
[9] https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/239693930903300420?icid=int.sj-abstract.similar-articles.1
[10] https://www.abebooks.com/9789004170261/History-Christianity-Indonesia-Studies-Christian-900417026X/plp
[11] https://ecommons.cornell.edu/bitstreams/e1d49bea-1552-4615-8670-85c9c20074e3/download
[12] https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5180447-a-history-of-christianity-in-indonesia
[13] https://books.google.com/books/about/A_History_of_Christianity_in_Indonesia.html?id=37fYAAAAMAAJ
[14] https://library.oapen.org/handle/20.500.12657/45624
[15] https://www.hrw.org/news/2022/01/14/discrimination-holds-back-religious-minority-children
[16] https://www.cambridge.org/core/product/F10BD92A5D69BB10E03A68F144597A67/core-reader
[17] https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/church-history/article/history-of-christianity-in-indonesia-edited-by-jan-sihar-aritonang-and-karel-steenbrink-studies-in-christian-mission-35-leiden-brill-2008-xvi-1004-pp-26500-cloth/B101FF5B12106F9E95F3E7D2415CE1E3
[18] https://scholar.google.co.id/citations?user=OGh78rMAAAAJ
[19] https://www.ucanews.com/news/jehovahs-witnesses-held-back-in-indonesian-school/95089
[20] https://www.academia.edu/757840/Jan_Sihar_Aritonang_and_Karel_Steenbrink_eds_A_History_of_Christianity_in_Indonesia
[21] https://www.jstor.org/stable/10.1163/j.ctv4cbgb1
[22] http://relindonesia.blogspot.com/2013/07/jan-sihar-aritonang-1953-2012.html
[23] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_Smith
[24] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Early_Christianity
[25] https://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/christianity/history/history_1.shtml
[26] https://www.britannica.com/topic/history-of-early-Christianity
[27] https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/religion-and-philosophy/mormon-church-founded
[28] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christianity_in_the_1st_century
[29] https://www.britannica.com/topic/Christianity
[30] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8q6FUlay-M8
[31] https://study.com/academy/lesson/joseph-smith-biography-teachings-quotes.html
[32] https://www.worldhistory.org/article/1205/early-christianity/
[33] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhLKH9WkMyc
[34] https://www.worldhistory.org/christianity/
[35] https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/009182961003800121
[36] http://christianityinview.com/timeline.html
[37] https://www.library.pima.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2021/08/History-of-Christianity-6610.pdf
[38] https://www.bartehrman.com/history-of-christianity/
[39] https://www.historycrunch.com/christianity-history.html
[40] https://dpsc.nt.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0013/252220/nt-christianity-fact-sheet.pdf
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