16
Figure 1: Dorothy Kabua performing JiTDam (sitting down foreheads faced) with son Amata Kabua
Dr. Monica LaBriola further states that The Marshallese expression jitdam kapeel suggest that wisdom is assured to those who study and understand these genealogies. While on the one hand jitdam kapeel translates roughly as “seeking knowledge guarantees wisdom,” the words by themselves have more precise connotations: jitdam means to study one’s genealogy, while kapeel means skillful; clever…wise; astute.” Put simply, those who study genealogy and other aspects of mantin majel (Marshallese Customs) grow wise, skillful, and astute.65 Although scientists, anthropologists, and linguists66 alike argue solidly on their origins--claiming that Marshallese people and their culture originated from Southeast Asia due to their connection to the Austronesian and Nuclear Micronesian language families--Marshallese are more inclined to understand their past, specifically their prehistory, through their improperly labeled myths, genealogies, folklores, and legends which have immortalized their proud heritage.67 65
Monica LaBriola, “Iien Ippan Doon: Celebrating Survival in a ‘Atypical Marshallese Community’,” 12. 66
Hilda C. Heine and Julianne Walsh, Etto Nan Raan Kein, (Honolulu: Bess Press, 2013), 22.
67
Desmond Narain Doulatram, “A MARSHALLESE TALE OF MODERNITY IN THE PACIFIC RIM: BRIDGING THE MODERN AND THE TRADITIONAL,” 1-66.