Mathematical Framework for Accurate Prayer Times: Insights from the Bencet Tradition

Abstract

Establishing a crucial connection between religious practices and mathematics is essential for comprehending the regularity and temporal discipline inherent in fulfilling religious duties, notably observed in traditional tools like bencet for determining prayer times. This qualitative ethnographic study aims to unveil the mathematical concepts involved in using and crafting bencet. This exploration of bencet represents the first-ever study in the history of ethnomathematics. Data analysis using the Miles and Huberman model reveals that the community's unconscious use of bencet tongkat demonstrates mathematical concepts, particularly in parallel lines, measurements, and the need for flat sides. Meanwhile, crafting bencet garis showcases the community's unconscious understanding of mathematical concepts related to parallel lines, perpendicular lines, the use of circles for angles, and measurements. These findings expand our understanding of cultural values and local wisdom, demonstrating their relevance to mathematical concepts. Furthermore, the study provides recommendations for future research, suggesting an exploration of ethnomathematics as an innovative alternative approach to learning.