Ritus Ruwatan Murwakala di Surakarta

Abstract

This article discusses Ruwatan Murwakala as one part of rites of passage in Java. This sacred ritual associated with life cycle has been practiced and has been considered relevant among Javanese. This ritual has become part of tangible and intangible oral tradition in Indonesia. Drawing from Van Gennep theory on rites of passage, this ritual consists of stages which represent life cycles such as separation in the first stage, marge or liminal (transition) in the second stage, and aggregation or rites of incorporation (recovery) in the third stage. This article also discusses the importance role of dalang or the ritual leader. Dalang is not merely play his role in the ritual but has become a mediator in the creation of a balance and harmonious relationship among beings in the cosmos; which has been characterized by a harmonious relationship between human beings and supernatural powers and the natural power.