Dimensi Kristologis dalam Pokémon: Analisis Tokoh Arceus dalam Pokémon Arceus and Jewel of Life the Movie
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61390/euanggelion.v6i1.5Keywords:
Christology, Pokémon, Popular Culture, Generation ZAbstract
Abstract: This study explores the Christological dimension embedded within the narrative of Pokémon: Arceus and The Jewel of Life by employing a qualitative library research method combined with film analysis through the theoretical framework of “Doing Theology through Film” proposed by Clive Marsh. The purpose of this research is to investigate how popular culture—specifically the Pokémon franchise—can function as an effective teaching medium for introducing Christology to Generation Z, a demographic deeply immersed in digital entertainment. The findings reveal significant thematic parallels between the character Arceus and the Christian understanding of Jesus Christ, particularly in motifs of self-sacrifice, life-giving action, and betrayal. These parallels highlight how familiar pop-culture narratives can become contextual bridges for theological education. The novelty of this research lies in its attempt to establish a direct Christological reading of a Pokémon film an approach not yet identified in previous studies that typically focus on Pokémon as a gaming or cultural phenomenon. The implications extend to contemporary Christian education, suggesting that integrating popular culture into teaching strategies may enhance comprehension, relevance, and engagement among young believers without replacing Scripture as the primary source of doctrine.
Abstrak: Penelitian ini mengkaji dimensi Kristologis yang tersirat dalam narasi Pokémon: Arceus and The Jewel of Life dengan menggunakan metode kualitatif berbasis studi pustaka serta analisis film melalui kerangka “Doing Theology through Film” dari Clive Marsh. Tujuan penelitian ini ialah menelusuri bagaimana budaya populer—khususnya franchise Pokémon—dapat dimanfaatkan sebagai media pengajaran yang efektif untuk mengenalkan Kristologi kepada Generasi Z yang sangat akrab dengan hiburan digital. Hasil penelitian menemukan sejumlah kesamaan tematis antara sosok Arceus dan pemahaman Kristen tentang Yesus Kristus, terutama pada aspek pengorbanan diri, tindakan memberi kehidupan, dan pengalaman pengkhianatan. Keselarasan ini menunjukkan bahwa narasi budaya populer dapat menjadi jembatan kontekstual bagi pendidikan teologi. Kebaruan penelitian terletak pada upaya membaca film Pokémon secara langsung melalui lensa Kristologi, sesuatu yang belum dijumpai dalam penelitian sebelumnya yang lebih berfokus pada Pokémon sebagai fenomena game atau budaya. Implikasinya membuka peluang bagi pendidikan Kristiani masa kini untuk mengintegrasikan budaya populer sebagai strategi pembelajaran yang lebih relevan dan menarik, tanpa menggantikan Alkitab sebagai sumber doktrin utama
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