THE TRADITION OF LARUNG SESAJI IN TELAGA PASIR, SARANGAN VILLAGE HEAD, PLAOSAN DICTRICT, MAGETAN REGENCY

Abstract

This research was aimed to describe origins of larung sesaji (float offerings)  tradition, larung sesaji process, sesaji and sesaji symbolic meaning and also larung sesaji tradition function for its supporting community. This was a quantitative research. Research data was obtained using a participation observation technique and an in-depth interview. Data analysis technique used was an inductive analysis. Data validity observation technique in this research used a source and method triangulation technique. The research results showed that: (1) origins of larung sesaji tradition has two version includes: firstly, the relationship between a mythos that tell a sacred board sand lake and lots of accident victims in that lake, secondly the relationship of Sarangan community tradition customs to celebrate an event in Ruwah (Javanese month), (2) larung sesaji procession are in forms of tirakatan (commemoration), pager desa, larung sesaji and selamatan (ceremonial event), (3) sesaji and symbolic meaning used in larung sesaji means gratitude to Allah SWT on bounty and enjoyment given, so that its supporting community obtain welfare, peace and health, (4) larung sesaji tradition function for its supporting community covers (a) religious function, (b) sand lake tourism function and (c) economic function.