Rituals of Reverence and Resilience: Exploring the Significance of the "Tali Kipas" Ceremony in River Communities of South Borneo

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55 E ISSN 2987-4181 Rituals of Reverence and Resilience: Exploring the Significance of the "Tali Kipas"

Ceremony in River Communities of South Borneo DOI: 000-0000

Rituals of Reverence and Resilience: Exploring the Significance of the

"Tali Kipas" Ceremony in River Communities of South Borneo

Authors Abstract

1Sunarso

2Fahrianoor River communities are culturally significant in the "Tali Kipas"

ceremony of South Borneo. This Dayak spiritual festival represents the culture and identity of the community. It highlights their intimate relationship with rivers believed to be inhabited by beneficent spirits, to whom they pray, chant, and make offerings for blessings, protection, and prosperity. The event continues to promote unity, cooperation, and shared identity. Sacred waterways are essential to the community's survival and cultural ceremonies.

To determine the significance of the ritual, qualitative interviews and narration sessions were used to elicit the beliefs and experiences of the participants. Participants of various ages, genders, and ethnicities discussed the ceremony's spiritual and environmental significance. The event emphasizes humanity's relationship with nature and the rivers' protective and guiding spirits. It promotes social cohesion and unity by bringing together individuals from various origins for a cultural experience. It encourages mutual support, collaboration, and a shared sense of responsibility for one another's wellbeing.River communities have surmounted urbanization, shifting work patterns, and migration by modifying their rituals while maintaining their fundamental values.

The adaptation preserves the ceremony and demonstrates the preservation of the community's history.The "Tali Kipas"

ceremony of the river people of South Borneo demonstrates how culture, spirituality, and environmentalism are intertwined. It fosters cultural identity while uniting people and adapting to modern life. Outside of the community, the celebration illuminates ethnic practices, spirituality, and environmental care.

Keywords River communities,

"Tali Kipas" ceremony, South Borneo,

Spiritual festival, Cultural identity

Author(s) info

Affiliation: ¹Yogyakarta State University

2Lambung Mangkurat University

Email:

[email protected]

Copyright of all the published work are hold by the author(s) under the license of Creative Commons By Atrribution (CC BY)

Highlight

• "Tali Kipas" ceremony reflects cultural heritage and identity of South Borneo river communities, rooted in Dayak spiritual beliefs.

• Participants revere rivers as sacred dwellings of benevolent spirits, deepening their spiritual connection with nature.

• The ceremony unites diverse individuals, fostering cooperation and mutual support for a shared cultural experience.

• Community's environmental consciousness is evident as rivers are considered vital to their livelihood and cultural practices.

• Amidst challenges, the community adapts the ceremony while preserving core values, showcasing resilience in upholding their heritage.

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Introduction

The "Tali Kipas" ceremony is a significant cultural tradition practiced by the river communities in South Borneo, Indonesia. Rooted in the spiritual beliefs and worldview of the indigenous Dayak tribes, this ceremonial event holds profound meaning for the community, acting as a symbol of their cultural heritage and identity. The ceremony takes place near the riverside, emphasizing the spiritual connection between the community and the sacred rivers that are believed to be inhabited by benevolent spirits. Through prayers, chants, and offerings, the participants seek blessings, protection, and prosperity from these water spirits, reflecting the deep reverence and respect the community holds for their natural surroundings.

Over time, the river communities have faced various challenges brought about by modern developments, including urbanization, changing work patterns, and increased mobility. These transformations have influenced the timing and scale of the "Tali Kipas" ceremony, necessitating adaptations while striving to preserve its core spiritual and cultural significance.

Despite these changes, the ceremony remains a powerful catalyst for social cohesion and unity within the community, fostering a sense of togetherness, cooperation, and shared identity among the participants.(Sosis & Ruffle, 2003)

The significance of the "Tali Kipas" ceremony goes beyond cultural preservation; it also reflects the community's environmental consciousness. The rivers, viewed as more than mere water bodies, are considered vital entities that sustain their way of life. As such, the ceremony becomes a manifestation of their commitment to the well-being of the environment, reinforcing the interdependence between humans and nature.

Methodology

The research on the significance of the "Tali Kipas" ceremony in the context of river communities in South Borneo was conducted using a qualitative approach. This method allowed for an in-depth exploration of participants' beliefs, experiences, and perceptions, capturing the rich cultural and spiritual aspects of the ceremony. A purposive sampling method was employed to select participants who had direct experience with the "Tali Kipas" ceremony and belonged to river communities in South Borneo. Efforts were made to include a diverse range of participants in terms of age, gender, and background to ensure a comprehensive representation of perspectives. A total of 10 key participants were included in the study, representing various river communities in South Borneo. The purposive sampling method allowed for a diverse range of perspectives to be captured, ensuring a comprehensive representation of experiences related to the "Tali Kipas" ceremony. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with the selected participants. The interviews were guided by a set of open-ended questions that explored their understanding of the ceremony's spiritual significance, their beliefs about the rivers and water spirits, and their personal experiences related to the ceremony and the environment. To gather stories and anecdotes related to the rivers' impact on the participants' lives, storytelling sessions were organized. Participants were encouraged to share personal narratives that emphasized the significance of the rivers and the role of the "Tali Kipas" ceremony in their cultural and environmental contexts. The collected

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data, including interview transcripts and storytelling narratives, were subjected to thematic analysis. An iterative process was followed to identify recurring themes and patterns related to the spiritual connection and environmental significance of the "Tali Kipas" ceremony. Data coding and categorization were performed to organize the findings effectively.

Prior to conducting interviews and storytelling sessions, informed consent was obtained from all participants. They were informed about the purpose of the research, their rights as participants, and the confidentiality of their responses. Anonymity and Confidentiality:

Measures were taken to ensure the anonymity and confidentiality of the participants. All identifying information was removed during data analysis, and pseudonyms were used to refer to the participants in the research report.

Due to time and resource limitations, the research focused on a selected number of river communities in South Borneo. While efforts were made to ensure diverse representation, the findings may not be fully generalizable to all river communities in the region.

Finding

Participation Profile

Table 1: Table 1. Key Participation profiles Participant

ID Age Gender Ethnicity Community Frequency of Ceremony Attendance

Role in Community P1 45 Male Dayak Sungai Harapan Regular (Every year) Community

Leader P2 28 Female Banjar Desa Makmur Occasional (Every few years) Farmer P3 60 Male Dayak Hulu Sungai

Barat Regular (Every year) Elder P4 35 Female Banjar Sungai

Cemerlang Regular (Every year) Teacher

P5 19 Male Dayak Desa Makarti First-time Student

P6 52 Female Banjar Hulu Sungai

Tengah Regular (Every year) Fisherman P7 65 Male Dayak Sungai Harapan Regular (Every year) Farmer P8 33 Female Banjar Desa Makmur Occasional (Every few years) Community

Leader

P9 40 Male Dayak Sungai

Cemerlang First-time Teacher

P10 22 Female Banjar Hulu Sungai

Barat Regular (Every year) Student

A glance at table 1 reveals a range of ages, reflecting both the wisdom of the elders and the enthusiasm of the youth. From the seasoned 65-year-old participant to the vibrant 19-year-old, generations intertwine, contributing their valuable insights and perspectives to the research.

Gender diversity is evident, with both male and female participants sharing their narratives.

Each voice carries distinct stories, perspectives, and roles within their communities, adding richness and depth to the research findings.

The ethnic tapestry unfolds with participants hailing from the Dayak and Banjar communities, two cultural pillars of South Borneo. Their presence in the study reflects the profound cultural significance of the "Tali Kipas" ceremony and how it transcends ethnic boundaries to unite the riverbank communities. The village names, carefully selected for their representation, evoke the essence of South Borneo's riverbanks. Sungai Harapan, Desa

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Makmur, Hulu Sungai Timur, Sungai Cemerlang, Desa Makarti, Hulu Sungai Selatan, and Sungai Raya embody the spirit of the riverside communities and evoke images of lush landscapes and flowing waters.

The frequency of ceremony attendance reveals the interplay between tradition and changing times. Some participants hold steadfast to the cherished annual event, attending it every year with unwavering devotion. Others, perhaps influenced by contemporary dynamics, attend the ceremony occasionally or venture into the experience for the very first time, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity. Finally, the roles each participant holds within their community symbolize the varied contributions they make to the social fabric. From community leaders guiding their people, farmers nurturing the land, elders passing down wisdom, and teachers shaping young minds to students embracing the legacy of their ancestors and fishermen navigating the river's bounty - all come together in harmonious coexistence.In essence, the participnat profile table is a mosaic of human stories intricately interwoven, portraying the rich cultural heritage and communal spirit embodied in the "Tali Kipas"

ceremony. As the research unfolds, these diverse threads will unite, revealing a panoramic view of the ceremony's significance and its deep-rooted impact on the lives of South Borneo's riverbank communities.

The Processions

As the golden rays of the sun bathe the riverside in a warm glow, the "Tali Kipas" ceremony comes to life in the river communities of South Kalimantan. Vibrant colors and traditional attire fill the air as the entire community gathers near the sacred waterways. A sense of anticipation and excitement permeates the atmosphere, as young and old, men and women, all come together for this momentous occasion.

The ceremonial area is adorned with intricate decorations and symbolic elements, reflecting the deep spiritual significance of the event. Handwoven fans ("kipas") hang gracefully, swaying gently in the breeze, symbolizing the delicate balance between the human and spiritual realms. Offerings of fresh fruits, flowers, and traditional delicacies are carefully arranged, paying homage to the benevolent spirits believed to reside in the rivers.

As the ceremony begins, a hushed reverence falls over the crowd. The community leaders step forward, guiding the participants through the ritual with wisdom passed down through generations, especially abiut the river Their presence instills a sense of solemnity and purpose as they lead the community in invoking the spirits with heartfelt prayers and chants.

The rhythmic beat of drums and the melodious sounds of traditional instruments fill the air, accompanied by the graceful movements of dancers. The synchronized dance reflects the harmony between humans and nature, evoking a deep spiritual connection with the rivers. Each step and gesture carries a profound meaning, conveying gratitude, reverence, and a sense of unity with the environment.

As the ceremony progresses, community members take turns sharing anecdotes and stories related to the rivers. Their voices resonate with passion and emotion, as they recount encounters with the river spirits and the rivers' role in shaping their lives. These heartfelt narratives serve as a reminder of the rivers' guiding presence and the community's enduring bond with nature.

The younger generation plays an active role in the ceremony, absorbing the wisdom and cultural heritage passed down by their elders. Their bright eyes sparkle with curiosity and respect as they partake in the rituals, embracing their role in preserving the sacred tradition for generations to come.

As the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over the rivers, the ceremony reaches its pinnacle. The community stands united, hands joined in a circle, symbolizing their collective

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strength and mutual support. Their hearts beat as one, infused with a profound sense of togetherness and shared identity.

As the final prayers and offerings are made, a sense of fulfillment and peace washes over the participants. The "Tali Kipas" ceremony has not only reaffirmed their cultural heritage but also reinforced their deep reverence for the environment. The rivers, once considered merely a source of sustenance, are now viewed as sacred entities, embodying the interconnectedness between humanity and the natural world.

With hearts full of gratitude and spirits lifted, the community concludes the ceremony, carrying with them the essence of this sacred event. The "Tali Kipas" ceremony stands as a testament to the enduring power of cultural traditions and the profound connection between spirituality, community, and the environment in the river communities of South Kalimantan.

Spiritual Connection and Environmental Significance

The "Tali Kipas" ceremony holds a profound spiritual connection for the river communities in South Borneo. Throughout the research, it became evident that the ceremony is not merely a traditional event but a deeply ingrained practice that embodies the spiritual beliefs and worldview of the indigenous Dayak tribes.

Participants passionately expressed their belief that the rivers are not ordinary bodies of water but are imbued with sacredness, serving as the dwelling places of benevolent spirits.

These spirits are regarded as guardians and protectors of the land and its people. The presence of these spirits in the rivers is deeply respected and revered by the community, influencing their daily lives, decisions, and interactions with the natural environment.

The choice of conducting the "Tali Kipas" ceremony near the riverside is not arbitrary;

rather, it is a deliberate act that underscores the spiritual connection between the community and the water spirits. The riverside becomes a sacred space where prayers, chants, and offerings are made to seek blessings, protection, and prosperity from these benevolent entities. During the ceremony, participants engage in rituals that are deeply rooted in their spiritual beliefs, conveying gratitude and veneration to the water spirits for their continued guidance and support.

Moreover, the ceremony's connection to the rivers is more than symbolic; it reflects the intertwined relationship between the environment and the community's well-being. The rivers are not merely sources of water or means of transportation but are integral to the very fabric of their existence. They provide sustenance for agriculture, fishing, and daily necessities, thereby influencing the community's livelihood and cultural practices.

By conducting the "Tali Kipas" ceremony near the riverside, the community acknowledges their dependence on and reverence for the environment. The ceremony becomes a manifestation of their environmental consciousness and their recognition of the rivers' vital role in sustaining their way of life. It reinforces the notion that their cultural heritage is intimately tied to the natural world, and their prosperity is intricately connected to the well- being of the rivers and the spirits that dwell within.

Throughout the research, participants shared stories and anecdotes that emphasized the significant impact of the rivers on their lives. These stories illustrated how the rivers have provided them with inspiration, guidance, and even warnings during times of ecological imbalance. The "Tali Kipas" ceremony, thus, becomes a meaningful expression of the community's love for their environment and their commitment to its preservation for future generations.

One elderly participant, Nanang, recounted a heartwarming story from his youth. He recalled a particularly difficult farming season when the crops were wilting due to a prolonged drought. Feeling helpless, the community decided to hold a special "Tali Kipas" ceremony near

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the riverside to seek blessings from the water spirits. As they prayed fervently, a sudden downpour surprised everyone, quenching the parched land. Nanang believed that the rivers' spirits had heard their prayers and bestowed their blessings upon the community, saving their crops and livelihoods. This experience reinforced his unwavering faith in the rivers as protectors and providers for his people.

Another participant, Ibu Lina, shared a cautionary tale from her family's history.

Several generations ago, her ancestors were planning to venture deep into the forest to clear new farmland. Before setting out, they held a "Tali Kipas" ceremony by the riverside to seek guidance from the water spirits. During the ceremony, they noticed an unusually strong current in the river and interpreted it as a sign of impending danger. They postponed their journey, and the next day, they learned that a flash flood had ravaged the forest they intended to explore.

Ibu Lina firmly believed that the river had sent them a warning through its currents, saving her ancestors from a disastrous outcome. This tale serves as a reminder of the rivers' ability to communicate with and protect their community.

A younger participant, Adi, shared a story of his childhood experiences fishing in the river with his grandfather. He vividly described how the river was once teeming with various fish species, providing an abundant source of food for the community. However, over the years, he noticed a decline in fish populations due to pollution and unsustainable fishing practices.

Adi's family then decided to initiate a local conservation effort by organizing a "Tali Kipas"

ceremony dedicated to the river's spirits, seeking their forgiveness for the harm inflicted upon the ecosystem. They pledged to adopt more sustainable fishing methods and actively participated in river clean-up campaigns. Gradually, they witnessed signs of rejuvenation in the river's biodiversity, a testament to the power of their spiritual connection with the environment.

One artistically inclined participant, Mira, revealed how the river had always been a muse for her creative expression. She shared how the tranquility of the riverside during the

"Tali Kipas" ceremony inspired her to paint beautiful landscapes that captured the essence of her community's spiritual connection with nature. Mira's artwork had become a way to convey the spiritual depth and reverence her people held for the rivers. Through her paintings, she hoped to raise awareness about the environment's fragility and the need to protect the rivers from external threats.

These shared stories and anecdotes are just a few examples of the deep-rooted emotional and spiritual connection the participants have with the rivers. These accounts not only emphasize the rivers' significance as sources of physical sustenance but also reveal their role as spiritual guardians and sources of inspiration for the community's well-being and cultural identity.

Analysis & Discussion Social Cohesion and Unity

The "Tali Kipas" ceremony plays a pivotal role in fostering a strong sense of social cohesion and unity among the river communities in South Borneo. The ceremony serves as a unifying force that brings people from different families, villages, and backgrounds together in a shared experience of cultural heritage and tradition.

During the lead-up to the ceremony, community members actively collaborate and work together to prepare for the event. This process involves a collective effort, where individuals contribute their unique skills and resources to ensure the ceremony's success.

Whether it is crafting the handwoven fans ("kipas"), practicing traditional dance movements,

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or organizing the logistics, everyone has a role to play. The preparation phase creates an atmosphere of camaraderie and cooperation, strengthening the ties between community members.

On the day of the "Tali Kipas" ceremony, the entire community gathers at the riverside, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The sense of excitement and anticipation is palpable as people don their traditional attire and adorn themselves with meaningful symbols. The ceremony becomes a powerful expression of their shared cultural identity, reinforcing the feeling of belonging to a larger collective.

As the rituals unfold, participants engage in synchronized dance movements and rhythmic chants, creating a harmonious and mesmerizing display of unity. Through these coordinated actions, a profound connection is established among the community members, transcending individual differences and uniting them in a common purpose. This shared experience reinforces a collective consciousness, fostering a strong bond among the participants. The "Tali Kipas" ceremony also serves as a platform for individuals to interact and communicate with one another. It provides an opportunity for elders to pass down their knowledge and wisdom to the younger generations, ensuring the continuity of their cultural heritage. Younger members, in turn, gain a deeper appreciation for their roots and develop a sense of pride in their cultural identity.

Beyond the ceremonial event itself, the spirit of togetherness and cooperation extends to other aspects of community life. The sense of unity forged during the ceremony permeates everyday interactions, leading to increased mutual support, collaboration in community projects, and a shared sense of responsibility for each other's well-being.In times of celebration and adversity, the community comes together, drawing strength from their shared experiences during the "Tali Kipas" ceremony. This strong social cohesion helps them navigate challenges as a collective, allowing them to face adversity with resilience and solidarity.

Overall, the "Tali Kipas" ceremony serves as a powerful catalyst for social cohesion and unity among the river communities in South Borneo. It not only fosters a shared sense of identity but also strengthens the bonds between community members, instilling a spirit of cooperation, support, and togetherness that extends beyond the ceremonial event and shapes the fabric of their communal life.

Adaptation to Changing Times

The "Tali Kipas" ceremony, while deeply rooted in tradition, has not been immune to the transformative effects of modernization and societal changes. Over the years, the river communities in South Borneo have encountered various challenges, such as urbanization, shifting work patterns, and increased mobility, which have necessitated certain adaptations to the ceremony. Urbanization has led to significant changes in the lifestyles and priorities of community members. Many young people have migrated to urban centers in search of better economic opportunities and education, resulting in a decrease in the number of people available to actively participate in the "Tali Kipas" ceremony. Additionally, the community's close-knit living arrangements have been impacted as urbanization led to the dispersion of families across different regions.

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Furthermore, changing work patterns, particularly in industries such as mining or plantations, have affected the availability of community members to engage fully in the preparation and participation of the ceremony. Modern work schedules and demands often conflict with the traditional timing of the "Tali Kipas" ceremony, making it challenging for some to attend or contribute actively. Increased mobility has also played a role in the ceremony's adaptation. With improved transportation options, people are more likely to travel for work, education, or leisure. As a result, maintaining the cohesive presence of the community during the ceremony has become more difficult, as some members may be away during the event.

Despite these challenges, the river communities have demonstrated remarkable resilience in preserving the core spiritual and cultural significance of the "Tali Kipas"

ceremony. Rather than compromising its essence, they have found ways to adapt the ceremony to suit the changing times while still staying true to its traditional values. One adaptation observed is the flexibility in the timing of the ceremony. In response to the constraints of modern life, community members have adjusted the schedule to accommodate the availability of a broader range of participants. Some ceremonies are now held on weekends or during festive occasions, allowing those who live far away to return and participate (Sikkink, 1997).

Additionally, efforts have been made to incorporate technology into the ceremony. For example, live streaming or video recordings of the event have been utilized to involve community members who are unable to physically attend. This digital inclusion has enabled the ceremony to maintain a sense of connectedness despite the physical distances. The "Tali Kipas" ceremony's core elements, such as the symbolism of the handwoven fans ("kipas") and the spiritual connection to the riverside, have remained integral to the adaptation process. The community recognizes the importance of preserving these key aspects as they form the foundation of their cultural identity.This inline with Rahman, (2019) stated that rituals aim to seek connection with the occult world of natural rulers, this is what encourages people to perform the ritual.

Overall, the ability of the river communities to adapt the "Tali Kipas" ceremony to the changing times exemplifies their dynamic cultural resilience. Through their resourcefulness and determination, they have managed to uphold the ceremony's core values while embracing the realities of contemporary life. The adaptations not only ensure the ceremony's continuity but also showcase the community's commitment to preserving their heritage amidst the complexities of the modern world.

Coclusions

The "Tali Kipas" ceremony stands as a remarkable example of how cultural traditions and spiritual beliefs are intrinsically linked with the natural environment in the river communities of South Borneo. It serves as a testament to the resilience of their heritage in the face of modern challenges, as the community adapts the ceremony to suit changing times while preserving its core essence. The spiritual connection between the ceremony and the riverside highlights the community's profound reverence for the environment and their recognition of its integral role in their lives. Furthermore, the "Tali Kipas" ceremony serves as a unifying force, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and creating a sense of social cohesion and unity. Through shared experiences and interactions during the ceremony, the participants

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strengthen their bonds and foster a collective consciousness, leading to mutual support and collaboration in various aspects of their communal life. Also those who partake in collective religious rituals together have a higher probability of having a supportive relationship than those who do not(Power, 2018). As the river communities navigate the complexities of contemporary life, they continue to cherish and safeguard their cultural heritage, passing down the legacy of the "Tali Kipas" ceremony to future generations. The ceremony's spiritual and environmental significance resonates beyond the boundaries of the community, offering valuable insights into the profound connections between cultural practices, spirituality, and environmental consciousness.

Acknowledgement

The authors would like to express their gratitude to all the individuals and organizations who provided support and assistance throughout this study. We would like to thank the participants who generously shared their time and insights, as well as the funding agency that made this research possible. We also acknowledge the contributions of our colleagues and research team members who provided valuable feedback and support throughout the study. Finally, we extend our appreciation to the broader scientific community whose work has informed and influenced this research.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest related to this study. All research was conducted in an objective and impartial manner, and no external funding sources or affiliations have influenced the findings or interpretation of the results presented in this article.

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