Bandung, IndonesiaSentinel.com — Ngaruwat Bumi is a tradition that has survived for centuries, continues to maintain its spiritual significance today. This tradition is an expression of gratitude for the earth’s bounty, while also serving as a prayer for the coming year and a gesture of respect toward the ancestors.
In the Sundanese language, “ruwat” means to gather and care for, symbolizing the togetherness of the community and the harvesting of the earth’s resources. Ngaruwat Bumi, also known as Hajat Bumi, has been passed down through generations and has remained for centuries.
This ceremony, which consists of a series of rituals, that include Hajat Solok, Mapag Cai, Mitembiyan, Netepkeun, Nganyarkeun, Hajat Wawar, Ngabangsar, and Kariaan, is mostly connected to agricultural processes, particularly rice cultivation. In these traditions, rice is considered special, believed to originate from the goddess blessing, and holds a sacred meaning.
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The Ngaruwat Bumi tradition is performed according to the local customs, but it often held for two days, with the first day featuring a series of activities:
- Dadahut, the preparation phase, involving community discussions, fundraising, food preparation, and the crafting of symbolic items such as the pintu heek and sawen.
- Ngadiukeun, the village elders, offer prayers in the sacred hut, seeking permission from God and the ancestors for the ceremony’s success.
- Meuncit Munding, the elders publicly announce the purpose and significance of the ceremony to the community.
- Ngalawar, the placement of offerings at the corners of the village by the elders.
- Sholawatan, recitations of prayers, and praises to God.
- Seni Buhun Gemyung, a traditional art performance dedicated to the ancestors, was held in the evening.
The second day marks the peak of the Ngaruwat Bumi ceremony, featuring several key rituals such as Numbal (a sacrificial offering), Ngarak Dewi Sri (a procession honoring the rice goddess Dewi Sri), Nyawer Dewi Sri (a ritual to share blessings), Ijab Rasul (a ceremonial blessing), and a performance of Wayang Golek (traditional puppet theater).
The Ngaruwat Bumi tradition is a cultural heritage rich in local wisdom and spirituality, embodying a deep connection to the earth and a respect for ancestral traditions.
(Raidi/Agung)
