Local Culture and Environmental Conservation: A Study on the Symbols’ Meaning Used in Barong Wae Ceremony in Manggarai, Flores, Indonesia

Abstract

Forest and water are of benefit for human. However, the forest and water condition in Indonesia is getting worse. Therefore, there should be a wise action to save them. One of the efforts is to see the existence of the local wisdom. This study aims at examining the meaning, and values contained in the Manggarain barong wae cultural ceremony in the context of forest conservation. To reach the objectives in question, interview, observation, and documentation were used to collect data which were subsequently interpreted following symbolic interaction theory. Findings revealed that aside from as a pillar of conservation, barong wae also functioned as a pillar of spiritual life (gratitude and request), a forum for togetherness, a behavior controller, and as a means of self-recovery /repentance. Meanwhile, based on the meaning given, in addition to ecological value, barong wae also has religious and social values. To sum up, barong wae deals with eco-socio- telogy Manggaraian conception toward the existence of nature.