The Socio-Cultural Meaning of Toraja Traditional Houses

Phenomenological Study of Socio-Cultural Values in the Construction of Tongkonan Traditional Houses in the Toraja Tribe in Kanaan Village, West Bontang District, Bontang City, East Kalimantan

Abstract

This study aims to describe and analyze the socio-cultural values ??of the Tongkonan traditional house of the Toraja ethnic group in Kanaan Village, West Bontang District, Bontang City and to describe and analyze the factors that shape the socio-cultural values ??of the Tongkonan traditional house of the Toraja ethnic group in Kanaan Village, Bontang City. The approach used in this study is descriptive qualitative, with a grounded theory basis that emphasizes empirical data obtained directly from the field. The results of the study indicate that the Tongkonan traditional house has a strong symbolic and philosophical meaning in the lives of the Toraja people in the diaspora, reflecting the relationship between humans and God, nature, ancestors, and each other. The process of building a Tongkonan house is carried out through mutual cooperation and is based on spiritual values ??and ethnic solidarity. Each architectural element, such as the shape of the building, the division of space, as well as carvings and ornaments contain religious symbols, social status, and cultural identity. In addition, this study found dynamics and changes in the meaning of cultural values ??due to various external factors such as modernization, migration, education, and intercultural interaction. These factors cause the adaptation of values ??and symbols of traditional houses, although their basic meanings are maintained as part of the cultural identity of the Toraja people. This finding shows that the socio-cultural values ??of the Tongkonan traditional house remain relevant and become a symbol of solidarity and cultural inheritance, even in the midst of social change in the diaspora environment.