RITUAL PROCESS IN THE MARAPU FUNERAL CEREMONY OF EAST SUMBA SOCIETY: A STUDY ON PRACTICE AND CULTURAL SYMBOLISM

Abstract

This research, entitled Ritual Process in the Marapu Funeral Ceremony of East Sumba Society: A Study on Practice and Cultural Symbolism explores the Marapu funeral ceremony of East Sumba as a vital cultural practice that reflects the community’s spiritual beliefs and social identity. The research aims to describe the stages of the ritual, identify its symbolic elements, and explain how the tradition is transmitted across generations. Using a qualitative ethnographic method, data were collected through in-depth interviews with a key informant from Kampung Raja Prailiu and document analysis. The findings reveal that the Marapu funeral consists of several structured stages, such as body preparation, lying in state, setting the burial day, procession, and closing; each reflecting social hierarchy and spiritual values. Symbolic elements such as horses, buffalo, red cloth, and gongs represent respect, power, and the connection between the living and the dead. The transmission of this tradition occurs mainly through oral teaching and ritual practice led by traditional leaders, supported by local and governmental preservation efforts. In conclusion, the Marapu funeral ceremony remains a living heritage that preserves East Sumba’s cultural identity while adapting to social changes.