The Core Values of the Bugis Life Philosophy and Their Relevance to Tuhfat Al-Nafis

Abstract

Background: This study explores the core values of the Bugis life philosophy as reflected in ancient Lontara manuscripts and examines their relevance to Tuhfat Al-Nafis, a historical text written by Raja Ali Haji. The Lontara heritage encapsulates moral, social, and spiritual principles that guide both individual behavior and governance. The research aims to analyze how the philosophical concepts of siri’ (honor), lempu’ (honesty), getteng (integrity), reso (diligence), and pesse (empathy) are manifested in the narratives of Tuhfat Al-Nafis and how these values shape leadership and ethical behavior. Method: Using a qualitative descriptive approach, this study employs textual analysis of selected Lontara passages and cross-references them with key sections of Tuhfat Al-Nafis. Results and Discussion: The findings indicate that siri’, expressed in the Lontara saying “Siri’ na pacce iyanaritu to Bugis-e, iya na napakau madecengngi tau” (Siri’ and pacce make a person truly human), serves as the moral foundation of Bugis identity and inspires dignity and resistance, as exemplified by Raja Haji Fisabilillah’s defense of his nation. Lempu’, as captured in “Aja muelliwi lempu’, nasabaé lempu’ riasengnge tau patujue” (Never abandon honesty, for it defines the righteous), emphasizes truth fulness and integrity in leadership and governance. Getteng, expressed in “Tau getteng-é, tena mapettu-pettu sirinna, tena massappa-sappa atinna” (A steadfast person never wavers in honor or courage), symbolizes moral consistency and perseverance. Similarly, the proverb “Reso temmangingi na temmappasussai” (Persistent effort never betrays its result) highlights reso, the Bugis ethic of diligence and hard work, reflecting resilience and determination in the Bugis struggle for sovereignty. Lastly, pesse, articulated in “Pesse-é iyanaritu mapakau tau ri watakkale” (Empathy binds humans through shared suffering), embodies compassion and social solidarity, forming the ethical basis of just and people-centered governance. Conclusion: Overall, these five core values —siri’, lempu’, getteng, reso, and pesse— constitute an integrated moral framework that resonates deeply with the ideals of just leadership and cultural integrity portrayed in Tuhfat Al-Nafis. The study concludes that the philosophical essence of Bugis culture, as illuminated through Tuhfat Al-Nafis, remains a timeless source of ethical wisdom and identity for the Malay-Bugis world. Keywords: Bugis philosophy, Lontara, Tuhfat Al-Nafis, Raja Ali Haji, siri’, lempu’, getteng, reso, pesse, moral values.