The Truth in Relation A Lamaholot Understanding of Truth

The article deals with the understanding and practices of the truth of the Lamaholot-speaking people in East-Flores, Indonesia. This traditional group of people does not have a theoretical understanding of truth. Analyzing sayings, social structure, and rituals of these people the author demonstrates that the truth as understood and practiced by the Lamaholot-speaking people is contextual. Truth is not absolute, neither relativistic. It depends on the context. Every person is expected to know what is right for him/her in a given situation and to act accordingly. Cultural sensitivity is a necessary condition to accept people's understanding and practice of truth.