Jakarta – Indonesia is renowned for its rich cultural diversity, including in the way people welcome the month of Ramadan. In addition to spiritually observing the fast, many Muslim communities across the archipelago have unique traditions they perform before the fast begins. These unique traditions are not only ritualistic but also symbolize self-purification, fostering friendship, and family togetherness.

1. Padusan: Purification before Ramadan

Padusan is an ancient tradition in Java, particularly in Yogyakarta, Klaten, and Semarang. The name of this tradition comes from the word "adus," which means to bathe. As Ramadan approaches, people bathe or soak in springs, public baths, rivers, or other water sources as a symbol of physical and spiritual cleansing before fasting.

2. Dugderan: Semarang's typical festival

In Semarang, the Dugderan tradition has been around since the 19th century. This tradition is usually held the day before Ramadan, marked by the beating of a drum, the sound of cannons, and a lively cultural carnival. This event reflects community togetherness and signifies the imminent arrival of Ramadan.

3. Nyadran: Pilgrimage and prayer for ancestors

Nyadran is a tradition that involves visiting and cleaning the graves of deceased ancestors or family members, then praying and giving alms. This activity is usually performed several days before Ramadan to honor the deceased and prepare the heart for purity and peace.

4. Munggahan: Gathering and forgiving each other

In West Java, especially among the Sundanese community, munggahan is an important pre-fasting tradition. Usually held one or two days before Ramadan, this tradition involves gathering with extended family or relatives, eating together, and forgiving each other to strengthen relationships and cleanse the heart before entering the holy month.

5. Nyorog: Giving gifts to elders

The nyorog tradition originates from the Betawi community in Jakarta. This activity involves giving food or gifts to parents, relatives, and community leaders as a form of respect and to maintain good relationships before Ramadan.

6. Meugang: Acehnese tradition welcoming Ramadan

Aceh has a unique tradition called meugang, which is performed one or several days before the start of Ramadan. This tradition involves slaughtering livestock such as cows or goats, then eating the resulting food with family, neighbors, and the surrounding community. This activity symbolizes gratitude and togetherness as the fasting month approaches.

7. Other preserved traditions

In addition to the traditions mentioned above, Indonesia also has many other local rituals performed before Ramadan, such as:

• Malamang in West Sumatra, a tradition of cooking and eating together with family and neighbors to welcome the fasting month.
• The Baratan tradition in Jepara is a communal prayer ritual involving a procession of residents and prayers for safety ahead of Ramadan.
• Mattunu Solong in West Sulawesi involves lighting traditional lamps in homes as a symbol of illumination and welcoming the month of Ramadan.

The meaning behind traditions welcoming the beginning of fasting

The various traditions welcoming the beginning of fasting in Indonesia have deep philosophical values. Most of these traditions are rooted in local culture and have been integrated with Islamic teachings. Although their forms vary from region to region, the essence of these traditions encompasses several aspects, such as purifying oneself, both physically and spiritually, before entering this blessed month. Furthermore, Indonesian traditions typically emphasize family ties and togetherness, reflected in the tradition of gathering and eating together. However, more importantly, there is respect for ancestors and elders through prayer, almsgiving, and visiting graves.

These traditions demonstrate how Indonesians combine spirituality and culture in welcoming the fast, making Ramadan not only a religious obligation but also a meaningful social and cultural moment.

Welcoming the beginning of fasting in Indonesia is not simply a formal ritual. Various traditions such as Padusan, Dugderan, Nyadran, Munggahan, Nyorog, and Meugang demonstrate strong cultural diversity and profound spiritual meaning. Each tradition provides a space for people to reflect, strengthen social relationships, and strengthen their spiritual readiness before entering the fasting month of Ramadan.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/2087737/unique-traditions-across-indonesia-to-welcome-ramada