The demonized gods: Cultural Colonization and Spiritual Demolition in the Philippines
The Spanish colonization of the Philippines in the 16th century brought about a profound clash of cultures, with the Spaniards imposing their religious beliefs on the indigenous people, branding their ancient gods, particularly the diwata, as demons (Demonios). Explores how the rich and diverse pre-colonial culture of the Philippines was stigmatized, leading to the enslavement and brainwashing of the local population, and how this historical narrative continues to influence perceptions in the modern era.
The Spanish Expedition and Religious Imposition:
In 1525, King Charles I of Spain initiated an expedition to colonize the Maluku Islands, which eventually brought the Spaniards to the Philippines. Religious missionaries accompanied these expeditions, utilizing the cross as a symbol of religion and the sword as a tool of force. The Philippines, with its already flourishing cultural tapestry, became a battleground where indigenous gods were demonized to pave the way for the imposition of Christianity.
Enslavement and Brainwashing:
The derogatory labeling of the diwata as demons was a strategic move to undermine the indigenous spirituality and traditions. The Spaniards sought to portray the old gods and rituals as savage, paving the way for enslavement and the brainwashing of pre-colonial Philippine settlers. By deeming their beliefs as backward and demonic, the Spanish colonizers aimed to assert control over the psyche of the indigenous population.
Conversion and Local Interpretation:
The initial conversion to Christianity was slow, with only a hundred people baptized in the first five years of Spanish presence. However, as the Spanish foothold strengthened, conversions became more common. Notably, the early Filipinos interpreted Christianity through the lens of their Southeast Asian cultural practices, allowing them to articulate their own values, ideals, and hopes for liberation within the framework of the new religion.
Folk Catholicism and Resistance:
Folk Catholicism emerged as a response to the imposition of Christianity. The indigenous population incorporated their pre-Hispanic patterns of behavior into this new form of worship, creating a syncretic blend that allowed for both spiritual expression and resistance against colonial oppression. Christianity, from the perspective of the masses, became a progressive religion for the oppressed.
Elite Adoption and Socioeconomic Dynamics:
The first Christian converts often came from the elite, finding advantages in the new religion that reinforced existing social hierarchies. In a society where leadership was charismatic and constantly negotiated, the elite leveraged Christianity to legitimize their authority. The conversion of the elite contributed to the broader acceptance of the new faith.
ERADICATION OF THE OLD GODS
The ancient deities of the archipelago did not align with the Eurocentric perspectives and foreign ideologies embraced by the Spanish conquerors. Consequently, they sought to diminish the indigenous beliefs, inciting conflict among the people of the archipelago. This strategy served to strengthen and impose Western religious doctrines and cultural paradigms, with a specific emphasis on demonizing or eliminating the indigenous gods. In contemporary times, a similar dynamic persists as foreign entities, particularly through social media, employ analogous tactics, fostering division among Filipinos. This perpetuates a fragmentation of the essence and significance attributed to the ancient gods, as the socio-cultural fabric is strained by internal discord spurred by external influences.
Modern Implications:
Despite the centuries that have passed since the Spanish colonization, the impact on Filipino beliefs and social dynamics persists. Modern-day Filipinos, influenced by historical narratives, sometimes view their old gods as demons. Furthermore, there is an ongoing effort, particularly in the age of social media, to use colonial mentality to perpetuate the negative image of the old gods, fostering division among the Filipino people.
The tale of cultural colonization and spiritual demolition in the Philippines is one of complexity, resistance, and ongoing repercussions. The derogatory labeling of the diwata as demons was a pivotal moment in history, leading to the enslavement and brainwashing of the indigenous population. However, the resilience of the Filipino people, as seen in the development of folk Catholicism and ongoing efforts to reclaim cultural heritage, showcases a narrative of survival and cultural continuity against the forces of colonization. The modern-day struggles against colonial mentality and the negative portrayal of old gods highlight the enduring impact of historical narratives on contemporary Filipino society, the hope that new mythologies will emerge to revive the belief in the old gods, only to snuff out by foreigners same as in the old days. Death to the gods and all hail the Aswangs.
