Diversity of plants and significance of nyiwaq ceremonies by Sasak ethnic, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara

Abstract

In everyday life, aside for food, clothing, and medicines, plants are also used for religious activities and are considered to have supranatural powers so that they are used as a complement of ritual ceremonies. Ethnobotany research of "nyiwaq" ceremonies carried out by sasak people on Lombok Island was done by direct observation in the field in Kuta Village, Mandalika - Central Lombok and by interviewing "Lalu" tuaadatand "Papu" old parents of the Sasak community. At least 13 species were used for offerings. "Nyiwaq" ceremony not only preserves the ritual ceremony with the unique offerings and complementary ceremonies presented but also shows the nature of cooperation among local people.