MAKNA TRADISI SEDEKAH LAUT BAGI MASYARAKAT DESA PALANG KECAMATAN PALANG KABUPATEN TUBAN

This study aims to explore the meaning of the Sedekah Laut (Sea Alms) tradition for the community of Palang Village, Tuban Regency. The Sedekah Laut tradition represents a form of local wisdom that remains preserved among coastal communities, including in Palang Village. It is carried out as an expression of gratitude by fishermen to God for the sustenance obtained from the sea, as well as a hope for continued abundance of marine resources and safety. The research adopts a qualitative approach with a descriptive method. Data were collected through observation, interviews with the head of the fishermen's association, traditional leaders, residents or fishermen of Palang Village, village officials, and documentation of the Sedekah Laut activities. This study applies Herbert Blumer’s symbolic interactionism theory, which includes four main concepts: language, symbols, roles, and definition of the situation.The findings indicate that, in terms of language, the Sedekah Laut tradition strengthens interaction among residents, fosters togetherness, builds trust, and includes the term nyadran laut as a local expression of the tradition. Regarding symbols, the tradition serves as an expression of gratitude, a form of respect, and a source of blessing for fishermen. In terms of roles, the village government acts as a facilitator in the implementation of the Sedekah Laut. Finally, for the definition of the situation, the tradition reflects active participation from the fishing community and is typically held during the month of Sha’ban or just before the fasting month of Ramadan.