Noli Me Tangere | Kabanata 31: Ang Sermon #nolimetangere

Summary

The transcript portrays a chaotic church scene during a sermon by Padre Damaso. As people jostle to approach the Agua Bendita, the heat and discomfort inside are palpable. Padre Damaso delivers a long, sermon in Spanish, filled with religious dogma and harsh criticisms of societal behaviors. His words, though grandiose, fail to resonate with many of the attendees, who are distracted or even asleep. Amidst the sermon, there are warnings and foreboding prophecies, with one person cautioning Ibarra about impending danger. The tense atmosphere reflects the turmoil and growing unrest within the community.

Takeaways

• 😀 The church is packed with people, pushing and squeezing to get close to the Agua Bendita despite the uncomfortable heat and unpleasant smells.
• 😀 People have to pay a fee to attend the sermon, with a notable comparison between the value of a sermon and a comedy show, where the souls of listeners are seen as destined for heaven.
• 😀 Ibarra is positioned in one corner while Maria Clara is seated near the altar, showing the social dynamics in the setting.
• 😀 The mayor, along with his full council, enters the church, displaying wealth and authority with Carlos Tercero's band playing and medals of grandeur.
• 😀 Padre Damaso delivers a sermon, casting a sharp glance at Ibarra while also throwing a derisive look at Padre Martin, highlighting the tension between the two.
• 😀 The sermon is partly in Spanish, which most of the people do not understand, though a few key words like 'guardia civil', 'tulisan', and 'San Diego' resonate.
• 😀 Padre Damaso emphasizes the importance of following God's will, likening it to the shining of stars and the importance of certain saints in religion.
• 😀 Some attendees, like Kapitan Tiago, start yawning, showing disinterest in the sermon, while others feel punished for their disbelief and lack of devotion.
• 😀 The sermon warns against sinful behavior, specifically advising that if one part of the body causes sin, it should be cut off, illustrating the severity of religious doctrine.
• 😀 Padre Damaso criticizes the social changes, including the loss of respect for religious teachings and the shift away from religious faith, which he views negatively.
• 😀 Ibarra is personally criticized by Padre Damaso, with the priest targeting him through veiled references, though Ibarra remains neutral, simply removing his hat in a form of respectful greeting.
• 😀 The sermon continues with fiery words against the arrogant and unfaithful, claiming they will face divine punishment, while some attendees remain unfazed or even fall asleep.

Q & A

What is the setting of the scene described in the script?

The scene takes place in a church, filled with people pushing and squeezing to get closer to the Agua Bendita (Holy Water). The atmosphere is hot and uncomfortable due to the crowd and the strong smell of sweat.

Who are the main characters mentioned in the script?

The main characters are Ibarra, Maria Clara, Padre Damaso, Padre Martin, and the Alcalde (Mayor).

What is the subject of the sermon given by Padre Damaso?

Padre Damaso's sermon revolves around spiritual matters, including the moral responsibilities of the listeners, with references to saints and the condemnation of sinners. He uses religious and metaphorical language, with critiques of societal behaviors.

How does Padre Damaso view the people around him, especially Ibarra?

Padre Damaso seems to have a disdainful view of Ibarra, giving him a mocking wink. He also seems to have negative views toward certain segments of society, as evidenced by his harsh comments during the sermon.

What are the people's reactions to Padre Damaso's sermon?

While some people seem to be paying attention to the sermon, many others are not fully engaged, with some falling asleep. The noise and restlessness among the audience reflect their indifference.

What does the Alcalde’s arrival signify in the context of the scene?

The Alcalde's arrival represents the power and influence of local authorities. He arrives accompanied by his staff and is adorned with symbols of his status, including a band and five medals.

What role does the sermon play in terms of social commentary?

The sermon is a vehicle for social commentary, with Padre Damaso criticizing the erosion of respect for authority and religion. He also addresses the growing disconnect between the religious and the faithful.

What does Padre Damaso say about sinners and the consequences of their actions?

Padre Damaso states that sinners will face punishment, both in this life (through imprisonment) and in the afterlife. He warns the people to avoid bad company and sinful behaviors.

How does the script depict the relationship between religion and power?

The script highlights the strong link between religion and power, especially through the authority of Padre Damaso and the Alcalde. The sermon reflects how religious figures hold influence over the people, while also illustrating societal tensions regarding power dynamics.

What warning does a man give to Ibarra during the sermon?

A man whispers to Ibarra, warning him to be cautious on the day of the school’s groundbreaking, advising him to stay away from the priest and not to venture near a pit where there is a risk of danger.