Bandung, IndoneisaSentinel.com — In modern society, offerings or sesajen are often consider against with certain norms. However, sesajen meaning actually carry deep cultural, rooted in the traditions passed down by our ancestors.
By Knowing their true meaning, offerings are no longer seen as taboo. They are a part of cultural heritage that must be preserved. The act of giving sesajen is a gesture of respect or a way fro expressing gratitude for what has occurred in life. however, many mistakenly perceive the practice of offerings as an activity against some norms especially religious teaching.
In truth in cultural aspect point of view, sesajen are rich with symbolism and aphorisms that need to be studied rather than condemned. Aphorisms are expressions that convey deeper meanings through metaphorical or symbolic imagery.
The local wisdom represented in these offerings should be learned and appreciated, not dismissed. We as the inheritors, are responsible for understanding and presereving this cultural wisdom, which passed down through generations.
The Symbolic Meaning of Offerings in Sundanese Culture
The word “sajen” (offering) is derived from “sesaji”, which means “Sa-Aji-an,” or an expression conveyed through visual symbolism rather than literal language, containins metaphysical or supernatural powers.
“Sa” in sajen means singular or unified, Sa also mean fire, embers, or energy (aura).
“Aji” refers to teachings or knowledge.
If we put it together, Sa-Ajian signifies the teachings or the worship of the One Supreme God. The act of Offerings illustrates that the dynamic and destructive forces of nature can be managed by aligning oneself with nature, rather than dominating or exploiting it.
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This ritual act as a metaphor or aphorism, deliver the message of the unity between humans and nature. The term Sa-Ajian overall implies the harmonization of human desires with the will of nature, emphasizing unity with the environment.
In its entirety, sajen embodies the the energy of the One Supreme God, the concept of monotheistic teachings. This concept of sajen are also being used to symbolized the state or nation In ancient Sundanese culture.
The aphorisms expressed in the practice of offerings represent the local wisdom passed down from our ancestors. Ultimately, offerings is a way to implement the divine teachings in our daily lives with righteousness.
These teachings and practices have been passed down through generations, ensuring well-being both in this life and in the afterlife. In Sundanese this is expressed as, “Rahayu lahir sinareng batin ayeuna jeung engke jagana” meaning “may we be blessed in body and soul, now and forever”.
(Raidi/Agung)
