Meaning of Symbolical Space of Zapin Dance to Malay People

Abstract

The objective of this research is to identify the meaning of symbolical space of Zapin Dance to Malay people. Research question includes: (1) What is the symbolization of Zapin Dance to Malay people? and (2) What is the meaning of Zapin Dance to Malay people? Zapin Dance originated from Arab culture that came to Nusantara around the 16th century and became popular when the Malacca Sultanate territories expanded to various regions in Southeast Asia, extending from Malacca Peninsula to Sulawesi. Zapin Dance was genuinely composed for arousing spiritual energy before waging the war. Zapin Dance was performed by a pair of dancers and the expression should be rhythmical and representing togetherness. The Research is qualitative descriptive using Levis Strauss’ structuralism theory. Data of research took many forms such as words, statements of experiences, verbal knowledges, and actions. Data were analyzed using textual and contextual interpretations where the subjects will be interpreted denotatively and connotatively. Result of research showed that: (1) Zapin Dance symbolizes social construct of Malay people; and (2) Zapin Dance imparts spiritual meaning to Malay people.