THE RITUAL FIRE OF ILLUMINATING FAITH & TOLERANCE: THE BAKAR TONGKANG (BURNING BOAT) TRADITION IN BAGAN SIAPI-API, SUMATERA, INDONESIA
Menelusuri Dimensi Keagamaan, Ekonomi, dan Sosial dalam Ritual Bakar Tongkang di Indonesia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54583/apic.vol8.no1.206Keywords:
Cultural Heritage, Religious Festivals, Tolerance in Multicultural Society, Local Wisdom, Community Involvement, Economic Impact of FestivalsAbstract
This study examines the Bakar Tongkang ritual as a multi-dimensional phenomenon reflecting the interplay between religious values, cultural identity, and socio-economic dynamics in Bagan Siapi-api. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach through participant observation, in-depth interviews, and literature review, the research explores how this tradition, rooted in Chinese heritage, not only serves as an act of ancestral veneration but also operates as a social integrative mechanism in an era of globalization. Theoretical frameworks such as social identity theory and symbolic interactionism are applied to assess the evolving meanings of the ritual. Findings indicate that Bakar Tongkang contributes significantly to social cohesion, local economic revitalization, and the affirmation of cultural identity through cross-religious cooperation. These insights offer valuable implications for tourism development and cultural heritage preservation models.
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