Shabbat in the dark: participatory observation as a relationship building tool in qualitative research

Abstract

Introduction. There is a gap in the study of Honduran identity and its relationship with religion. For example, Judaism is frequently marginalized and fetishized in a society derived from Christian hegemony. Presentation of experience. Standpoint epistemology and participatory observation were used to investigate the Orthodox Jewish community in a synagogue in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. Participatory observations were carried out at the Shabbat service, where women of the community participated in the rituals. Information was collected through experience and conversation. Discussion. Rituals and practices are fundamental to all religions. In the Orthodox Jewish community studied, it has become a cornerstone. The desire to comply with religious law was logical in a context where observance was the only connection to Jewish identity. Conclusion. The value of standpoint epistemology is confirmed by the depth of information obtained by the invitation to join the Shabbat service and the level of involvement permitted. In this instance, participatory observation became a tool to establish trust. In this first view, the exchange of information and a point for future contact was facilitated.