Last modified: 2023-09-14
Abstract
Although the majority of Sumbanese are Protestant and Catholic, they also still adhere to the local belief of Marapu. This article is intended to explore the concept of divinity in the local belief of Sumbanese, that is Marapu, by focusing on the rituals of Zeiso and Woleka. The method used in this research is qualitative-descriptive through literature study and interviews. The results of this study show that the concept of divinity in Marapu belief involves worshiping the spirits of ancestors as mediators of humans and God who are referred to as “Ama A Magholo - Ina A Marawi,” that are the creator and maintainer of life in the world. Marapu adherents perform various rituals directed to the spirits of the ancestors, such as worship, gratitude, repentance, prayers, and so on, accompanied by various offerings such as animals, betel nut, rice, and so on. Zeiso and Woleka ceremonies are rituals performed when and after someone experiences a disaster. They believe that the spirits of the ancestors can help in various ways, such as in finding sustenance, improving social relations, and asking for blessings. Therefore, these two rituals are quite often performed by Marapu adherents in interacting with “Ama A Magholo - Ina A Marawi” through the ancestors. Both rituals also provide specific information regerding the descriptions of “Ama A Magholo” and “Ina A Marawi”.