The Hand-Print Tradition of the Community from Maros Karst

Abstract

This study aims to describe the ritual of the handprint tradition (mabbedda' bola) and its symbolic message to obtain an overview of the essence of the handprint concept in the culture of the Karst Maros community. Methods of collecting data through literature research, in-depth interviews, and participatory observation. In this research, triangulation of data, sources, and methods was carried out. Three aspects were discussed: (1) the material of the hand-print; (2) the hand-print ritual process; and (3) the symbolic meaning of the hand-print. The results of this research indicate that hand-print is not only mythical-magical, but the process also shows gender statements, messages about the meaning of home and family, including statements of life existence or strengthening one's soul after going through a disaster.