TITLE:
Betel Nut and Betel Leaf: Strengthening Social Relations through the Tradition of Chewing Betel in the Islamic Community in Kao Village, North Halmahera
AUTHORS:
Abd. Rahman, Junaib Umar
KEYWORDS:
Kao Islam, Sirih Pinang, Social Relations, Strengthening, Traditions
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Social Sciences,
Vol.12 No.11,
November
29,
2024
ABSTRACT: This article is the result of research that wants to reveal the relationship between the tradition of eating sirih and pinang (menyirih) and its relationship with the formation of social relations among the Muslim community of the village of Kao, North Halmahera. In every meeting for any activity, one of the parties always presents his guests with a spoon and a pinch. The phenomenon is not only among the elderly men and women, but also among the younger generation. The question is: is the historical background inherited in the community of the village of Kao Islam? What is the meaning and benefits behind the tradition of inheriting in the village community concerned? and is the tradition a way to strengthen social relations within the community in question? This research uses Historical Research Methods with a sociological and psychological approach as well as quantitative measurements. Based on the results of the research, it was found that, the tradition of attachment to the Muslim community of the village of Kao has long lasted and it turns out this tradition has also become a custom of the kings and gentlemen in the North Maluku colonial times, for example in the Sultans of Ternate and Tidore. The tradition inherited in the community of the village of Kao Islam, is a sacred custom and should be preserved for the harmonization of relations between citizens of the community. Habits are not just a tradition, but a reinforcer of interpersonal social relationships in society. Although the customs are not only found in the village of Kao, the relationship between them and the strengthening of social relations in the community concerned has its own development.