Javanese Proverbs as a Reflection of the Personality and Principles of Javanese

Abstract

This research aims to reveal the meaning of Javanese proverbs from a semantic and lexical perspective so that they form the characteristics of Javanese culture. The data and data sources in this research come from articles spread on social media. In this research, the data used are four proverbs, namely: (1) Ono Dino Ono Upo, Ora Obah Ora Mamah (There are days when there is rice, not moving, not eating); (2) Mikul Nduwur, Mendem Jeru (Lifting it high, burying it as deep as possible); (3) Esuk Dhele Sore Tempe (morning soybeans afternoon tempe); and (4) Adigang, Adigung, Adiguna (Strength, Power, Intelligence). In data analysis, the method used is a qualitative descriptive method with structural and ethnolinguistic language analysis techniques based on Javanese proverbs. The research results show that (1) this proverb reflects that Javanese people live in simplicity; (2) this proverb reflects that Javanese people live by working hard; (3) the Javanese proverb reflects Javanese people living with noble character and respecting their parents; (4) the proverb reflects that Javanese people live in order; and (5) a reflection of the Javanese people who are firm in their stance and polite in living their daily lives. Therefore, it is true that the meaning of the language used can be the culture of the language itself.