Abstract

This study aimed to explain the uniqueness of the Bejango ritual of the Songak community in the context of the Bejango tradition of the Sasak tribe, to describe the two sides of the Bejango tradition of the Songak community, and to explore and explain the spirituality of the Bejango Belèq tradition of the Songak community through communal footprint. Data collection techniques include in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document review. Data analysis uses domain analysis techniques and cultural theme analysis. The results of the study found that the Bejango tradition of the Songak community is unique compared to the Bejango tradition of other Sasak tribes throughout Lombok Island, as evidenced by the evolution of Bejango Kodèq to Bejango Belèq. The personal-spiritual side of the Bejango Belèq tradition in the Songak community is reflected in three aspects: (1) the function of the Bejango ritual for individual practitioners, (2) personal teleological orientation during life until reaching the afterlife, (3) spiritual dimensions based on Islamic beliefs, in accordance with individual experiences in carrying out religious worship. The social-profane side of the Bejango Belèq tradition of the Songak community contains three essential elements: customary norms, customary rituals, and customary media. The personal-spiritual and social-profane dimensions in the Bejango Kodèq tradition are inherited and developed into social-cultural activities at a more macro level in the Bejango Belèq tradition. Communal footprint in the Bejango Belèq tradition radiates spiritual values framed by noble customs inherited by the ancestors of the Sasak tribe on Lombok Island.