Racang Ngi'is Traditional Ritual as Culture Preservation of the Cila Community of Nagekeo District

Abstract

Racang Ngi'is traditional ritual is one of the traditional rituals of the Cila community in Nagekeo Regency, which has been passed down from their ancestors and is still practiced today. The purpose of this traditional ritual is as a form of self-maturation for girls before starting a family. This study aims to explore the stages of implementation, meaning, and values of racang ngi'is traditional ritual. This study uses qualitative descriptive methods, namely collecting data and stating it in the form of words and images and arranging it in meaningful sentences. The researcher uses primary data sources (interviews and observations) and secondary data sources (literature studies, documentation). Technique of data analysis begins with direct observation, researcher experience, then conducting interviews with traditional leaders and community leaders (parents). Next, the researcher looks again relevant documentary evidence, separating, grouping, and verifying it according to needs. The results of the study show that this traditional ritual consists of three stages: preparation (nuji namat), implementation (racang ngi'is), and ending (bagi regha and caghe ware). The meaning of racang ngi'is traditional ritual is a form of respect for God and ancestors, a daughter's maturity according to tradition and worthy of starting a family, and a sign of parental obligation and responsibility towards her daughter. The values contained in racang ngi'is traditional ritual include religious, social, moral, and joyful values. Cila people need to understand the stages, meaning, and values so they can practice them in their daily lives sustainably and preserve racang ngi’is traditional ritual from generation to generation.