Solomons
p. 17 · Read in the full issue
Religious Difficulties in Solomons
Letter to the Editor.
MEDICAL men and anthopologists are beginning to wonder whether the teachings of the Seventh Day Adventists’
Mission are not becoming a danger to the physical well-being of the native races in this group who have become their converts.
Without criticising the religious beliefs of that body, I will say that it is becoming evident that the tabus and prohibitions on native foods are resulting in a decline in the stamina of the natives. Pork, ’possum and all meats are prohibited, as are also fish, tobacco and betel nut. There is no incentive now for hunting and fishing parties. Men loaf around the villages and the women look after the gardens.
In our district the S.D A. have gone a step further. Marys are now compelled to wear “bloomers” (made of soreleg calico,) under their lavas. Apart from the prudery and absurdity, can anything be less hygienic than this? A singlet worn by a native usually stays on the body until it rots off.
In the Mandated Territory, any clothing other than a lava is prohibited. A wise law, that should be enforced throughout Me’anesia.
Solomaniac.
B.S.I., Feb. 5, 1934.