The Tengger Tribe is one of the ethnic communities residing around Mount Bromo in East Java, Indonesia. Known for their strong Hindu-Buddhist beliefs and traditions, the Tengger people stand out despite the majority of Javanese having converted to Islam. One of the prominent cultural aspects of the Tengger Tribe is their traditional ceremonies, including "Unan-unan." This ceremony reflects the rich and unique spiritual and social values of the Tengger people. This article delves deep into Unan-unan, exploring its explanation, the ceremony process, and its benefits for the Tengger community.
Understanding the Tengger Tribe
The Tengger Tribe is an ethnic group inhabiting the mountainous regions around Mount Bromo, Semeru, and the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. The name "Tengger" is believed to derive from the phrase "tenggering budi luhur," meaning high or eternal morality. The Tengger people are known for their hospitality and simplicity, as well as their strong adherence to the Hindu-Buddhist teachings passed down from their ancestors.
Explanation of Unan-unan
Unan-unan is one of the traditional ceremonies of the Tengger Tribe, conducted as a form of gratitude and respect to ancestors and gods. This ceremony is usually held every five years and is a crucial part of the spiritual life cycle of the Tengger community. Unan-unan involves a series of rituals, including offerings, prayers, and various cultural activities.
Origins and Meaning of Unan-unan
Unan-unan has deep roots in the history and mythology of the Tengger Tribe. The ceremony is believed to be a way to maintain a harmonious relationship between humans, nature, and spiritual beings. The name "Unan-unan" comes from the word "unan," meaning sleep or rest, reflecting the concept of calming and balancing energy in life.
The Unan-unan Ceremony Process
The Unan-unan ceremony involves several important stages that must be strictly followed by the Tengger community. Here are the main stages of the ceremony:
1. Preparation
Preparation for Unan-unan begins several months in advance. The Tengger people start gathering various offerings such as agricultural products, livestock, and handcrafted items. All these are prepared carefully and sincerely as a form of gratitude and respect.
2. Cleansing Ritual (Ruwatan)
The cleansing ritual or ruwatan is performed by the village shaman to cleanse oneself from negative energy and seek blessings from the gods. Ruwatan is usually conducted by reciting sacred prayers and sprinkling holy water on the participants.
3. Offerings at Pura Luhur Poten
On the peak day, the Tengger community gathers at Pura Luhur Poten, a temple located at the foot of Mount Bromo. Here, they perform collective prayers, chanting mantras and prayers to the gods. The ceremony is led by the village shaman who guides the proceedings.
4. Procession to Bromo Crater
After the prayers at the temple, the participants proceed to the crater of Mount Bromo, carrying the prepared offerings. Upon reaching the crater, the offerings are thrown into the crater as symbols of sacrifice and gratitude to the mountain gods.
5. Closing and Celebration
After offering the sacrifices, the ceremony continues with cultural activities such as traditional dances and musical performances. This is a time for the community to celebrate togetherness and express gratitude for the blessings they have received throughout the year.
Benefits of Unan-unan for the Tengger Community
1. Spiritual and Religious
Unan-unan is an expression of faith and devotion to the gods and ancestors. The ceremony strengthens spiritual bonds and helps preserve the religious traditions of the Tengger Tribe.
2. Social and Community
The ceremony strengthens social bonds within the Tengger community. All members, regardless of age or status, gather and collaborate in the preparation and execution of the ceremony. This helps create a strong sense of solidarity and togetherness.
3. Economic
Unan-unan also has positive economic impacts on the local community. The ceremony attracts many tourists, both domestic and international, who come to witness the uniqueness and beauty of Tengger culture. The presence of tourists provides additional income for the locals through tourism and trade.
4. Cultural Preservation
Through Unan-unan, the Tengger Tribe successfully preserves and promotes their culture and traditions to the outside world. This is essential for maintaining their cultural identity in the face of ongoing modernization.
Types of Rituals in Unan-unan
1. Prayer Rituals
Prayer rituals involve the recitation of prayers and mantras by the village shaman. This is a form of direct communication with the gods to seek blessings and protection.
2. Offering Rituals
Offering rituals are the core of Unan-unan. The offerings presented symbolize the community's gratitude and sacrifice to the gods.
3. Ruwatan Rituals
Ruwatan is a purification ritual aimed at cleansing oneself of negative energy. It is performed using holy water and special prayers.
Conclusion
Unan-unan is a sacred ceremony that plays a significant role in the life of the Tengger Tribe. Through this ceremony, they not only express their gratitude and devotion to the gods but also strengthen social bonds, promote their culture, and boost the local economy. Unan-unan is an example of how traditions and culture can survive and thrive amidst changing times, serving as a bridge between the past and present, and between spirituality and daily life.
By understanding and appreciating Unan-unan, we can better appreciate the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Indonesia. May this ceremony continue to be a source of inspiration and pride for the Tengger Tribe and the Indonesian people as a whole.
References :
https://hypeabis.id/hypephoto/26828/pengiring-ritual-unan-unan
https://foto.kompas.com/photo/detail/2018/06/01/152783362419f/1/Unan-unan-Ritual-Adat-5-Tahunan-Masyarakat-Suku-Tengger
https://jatim.antaranews.com/foto/256628/ritual-unan-unan-suku-tengger/4
https://kumparan.com/aldilla-dinda-yuniarta/tradisi-upacara-adat-unan-unan-di-desa-wisata-ranu-pane-1xmGirgkJd1/1
https://www.bbc.com/indonesia/indonesia-44340389
https://indonesia.go.id/kategori/budaya/8198/unan-unan-dan-tradisi-lima-tahunan-masyarakat-tengger?lang=1
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https://www.detik.com/jatim/budaya/d-7306738/melihat-upacara-adat-unan-unan-di-desa-tertua-suku-tengger-probolinggo
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