Land as divine inheritance: An ecological analysis of Leviticus 25:23 in the context of Papuan local wisdom

The global ecological crisis has intensified debates about religion’s role in environmental degradation. Although Christianity has been accused of encouraging exploitative views of nature, biblical theology offers constructive foundations for ecological ethics. This study develops an ecotheological reflection on land as God’s possession based on Leviticus 25:23, interpreted in dialogue with Papuan local wisdom. The research stands at the intersection of biblical theology, ecotheology and Papuan cultural traditions, particularly Hak Ulayat [customary land ownership], Ondofolo [the highest customary leader] leadership and cultural symbols such as the noken [traditional woven bag]. Using a qualitative–theological approach through biblical hermeneutics, exegetical reading, ecotheological literature and contextual cultural analysis, the findings reveal two ethical dimensions in Leviticus 25:23: stewardship and limitation as correctives to ecological exploitation. Papuan traditions affirm that land belongs to God and must be preserved for future generations. Integrating biblical theology with Papuan wisdom enriches ecotheological discourse and guides the church as educator and ecological agent. Contribution: This article contributes to the field of ecotheology by (1) offering a biblical exposition of Leviticus 25:23 as a theological foundation for ecological stewardship, (2) integrating Papuan local wisdom into Christian theological reflection, and (3) presenting the church as an agent of ecological praxis. The study aligns with the scope of HTS Teologiese Studies by providing contextual and interdisciplinary insights that connect biblical theology, ecology and local culture in addressing global ecological concerns.