Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — The Tiwah ritual, a profound cultural tradition for the dead in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, continues to be practiced by the Dayak Ngaju people. As one of the most sacred ceremonies in Dayak culture, the tiwah death ritual celebrates the life of the deceased showing the Dayak Ngaju concept of the spirit world.
At its core, Tiwah aims to assist the departed and guiding their soul to the afterlife, known as Lewu Tatau, while bringing peace and protection to the living. The Dayak Ngaju believe that death marks the beginning of a spiritual journey.
The soul, referred to as Liau or Liaw, must be delivered to the afterlife through the Tiwah process. For adherents of Kaharingan, the indigenous Dayak religion, performing Tiwah is both a moral and social obligation. Without it, the spirits may remain trapped in the mortal world, unable to find their eternal rest.
A Months-Long Preparation
Preparing for the Tiwah ritual is no small feat. Months of planning and resources are required to organize the ceremony, which can last from three days to over a month. The ritual involves a series of complex stages, beginning with the exhumation of the deceased’s remains. The bones, which is important for the ritual, was taken and cleaned for the ritual. In cases where the body is intact, the remains are carefully separated from the flesh.
The ritual is traditionally performed years after burial—sometimes seven to ten years later—to ensure the family is ready to host this monumental event. The community’s involvement is essential, with extended family, neighbors, and guests playing vital roles in the process.
Ritual Highlights
The Tiwah ceremony begins with the construction of sacred structures called Balai Pangun Jandau or Sangkaraya sandung rahung. Animal sacrifices tied into the sangkaraya and circled by the people, where then the sacred dances of mangajan are performed. A central pole known as the Tihang Mandera then placed near the ceremonial site, signaling the village’s closure during the celebration.
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Animal sacrifices, an integral part of the ritual, symbolize offerings to guide the spirits to the afterlife and protect the community from misfortune. Watercraft filled with offerings are sent off as part of the spiritual journey, culminating in the final day when the remains are wrapped in red cloth and placed in a sandung, a small shrine that serves as their final resting place.
Religious and Cultural Significance
The Tiwah ritual holds profound religious and cultural importance. Spiritually, it honors the ancestors, viewed as sources of life and blessings, while expressing gratitude and prayers to the divine protectors. It also embodies hope and faith that the deceased’s soul will reach the eternal spirit realm, the ultimate destination for humanity.
Culturally, Tiwah reflects the richness of Dayak traditions through music, dance, attire, and decorations, highlighting the community’s artistic creativity. The ceremony fosters unity and cooperation, as its preparation and celebration involve collective efforts, showcasing the spirit of togetherness that defines Dayak society.
The Tiwah death ritual is a vivid example of Indonesia’s diverse cultural heritage, offering a glimpse into the mysticism and spiritual depth surrounding death in Dayak Ngaju tradition. It serves as a reminder of the nation’s rich cultural tapestry and the enduring values of respect, gratitude, and hope that transcend time.
(Raidi/Agung)
