Analysis of the Symbolic Meaning and Philosophy Behind the Ritual Stages of Mappogau Sihanua

Abstract

Karampuang Traditional Village is a community of indigenous people that still maintains and preserves its traditions and cultural values. The people in Karampuang Traditional Village still actively carry out ritual ceremonies as a form of respect and gratitude to the spirits of their ancestors, while hoping that their lives will be better. This ritual is considered very sacred and must be carried out. However, there is a different view among some members of the Karampuang Indigenous community who only see this ritual as an expression of gratitude to traditional leaders. This research aims to explore and analyze the hidden symbolic and philosophical meanings behind the stages of the mappogau sihanua ritual which is very meaningful for the Karampuang Indigenous community. The research method used was descriptive qualitative, with the research subjects being people living in the Karampuang Traditional Village, Tompobulu Village, Bulupoddo District, Sinjai Regency. Through analytical steps such as data reduction, data presentation, and data verification through observation, interviews, and documentation, this research reveals information about the existence of the mappogau sihanua ritual as well as its symbolic and philosophical meaning. The research results show that this ritual has experienced significant changes in the perception of the Karampuang traditional community. Even though some still associate it with animist beliefs, the implementation of this ritual actually has a deep and rich meaning in the Islamic context. The mappogau sihanua ritual is carried out in the Karampuang traditional house which has simple architecture but is full of symbolism. In addition, this ritual stage emphasizes the importance of intention in every action, underscoring the spiritual dimension in the implementation of the ritual. This ritual also reflects gratitude for the harvest and contains deep human values.