Bea Michaela C.

Simera
LITN01G | ARCH 502

Discussion Questions for Pre-Colonial Literature

1. Watch the lecture about Pre-colonial Literature using the video ling below and read
the lecture on link below; then, answer the following questions:

a. From which race are we from as theorized and what are the two theories?
The two main theories about the origins of Filipinos are the Austronesian theory and the
Austroloid theory.
The Austronesians, who migrated from Taiwan, and the Austroloids, who have Australo-
Melanesian roots. The Austronesian theory suggests migration from Taiwan into the
Philippines and beyond, while the Austroloid theory proposes earlier migrations from
Papua New Guinea and nearby regions. These theories highlight the complex origins and
diverse heritage of the Filipino people.

b. How does this affect your perception about our identity as a FIlipino and our
position in this world?
They affirm our belonging to a global community, bridging connections across
continents. Embracing this diversity fosters inclusivity and appreciation for different
cultures. It also emphasizes our shared humanity, promoting empathy and understanding
in our increasingly interconnected world.

c. What can we perceived from the Manunggul Jar?

A belief from our ancestors is depicted in the detail of the spirit boat on the jar lid from
Manggul Cave in the Manunggul Jar. This is because, according to maritime culture, our
awareness tells us in our faith that, once we die, we will ride a boat to the afterlife. The
Manunggul jar was used by the early Filipinos for secondary burial, an early kind of
burial in which a person's bones were placed in a jar no over a year after their passing.

d. How does our ancestors view kaluluwa? How is this related to how we should
live our lives?
We descended from our ancestors from people who believed humans are made up of two
parts: the panloob, or inside of us, and the panlabas, or outside body. The kaluluwa and
ginhawa are the two life energies of the panloob. Our forefathers thought that our brain's
"kaluluwa," or life force, had an alignment in heaven. This life force is responsible for our
sentiments and will, which we derive from the concept of "tao." After passing away, the
kaluluwa have the ability to reincarnate on Earth, where they can live in harmony with
the environment and guide their descendants.

We can apply this to our own lives by leading righteous lives, which leads to
kaginhawaan, or wellbeing.

e. What FIlipino values can we learn from "bagani"?

An ancient warrior named Bagani is related to Bayani. The term "Bagani" refers to the
Filipino people, not because they fight, but rather because they are encouraged to always
give back to their community and society, even in little ways.
f. What signifies Batek?
Batek is a traditional tattoo. After winning the battle, some warriors got their tattoos. The
term "batekan," which means "victory of ancestor," refers to a warrior who has numerous
tattoos. And we referred to someone with skill as a batekan today.

g. How do we define kapwa?

There is no corresponding word in English for kapwa because, when properly translated,
it indicates you recognize yourself in the other person. You will treat others how you
would like to be treated.
h. How was kaginhawaan defined?
In Jose Rizal's "Filipinas Dentro De Cien Años" (The Philippines a Century Hence),
"kaginhawaan" embodies a vision of holistic prosperity and well-being for the Filipino
nation. Rizal portrays it as a state where the Philippines attains socioeconomic
development, political stability, and cultural enlightenment. Kaginhawaan reflects Rizal's
aspiration for a future where Filipinos enjoy harmonious living, free from the shackles of
colonial oppression and internal strife. It symbolizes the fulfillment of the Filipino
people's aspirations for progress, dignity, and fulfillment on their own terms.

i. What do we mean when we say, "the ancestor in us".

The phrase "ancestor in us" can also mean "spirit of our victorious ancestor," which
represents both humanity and victory within of us. that as long as each of us is willing to
contribute in some small way, as a group, we will come out victorious toward our
common humanity.

j. What is the importance of pre-colonial literature today and in your life?

The importance of precolonial literature today in our life, is we can able to perceive
things in different ways and it will help us to create our own identity. It also provides
insights into the culture, beliefs, and values of societies before the arrival of colonizers.
This can help us understand the roots of various traditions and practices, as well as
appreciate the diversity of human experiences.