MAKNA SIMBOLIS KEPALA KERBAU PADA UPACARA RITUAL NYADRAN DI KELURAHAN NGANTRU KABUPATEN TRENGGALEK (Studi Kasus Kepala Kerbau Pada Upacara Nyadran di Kelurahan Ngantru)

This study aims to examine the symbolic meaning of the buffalo head in the Nyadran Dam Bagong ritual in Ngantru Village, Trenggalek Regency. The Nyadran tradition is a Javanese cultural heritage, performed as a form of respect for ancestors and an expression of gratitude for harvests and prosperity. In this ritual, the buffalo head is the primary offering, holding a significant position and rich in symbolic meaning. This research used a qualitative, descriptive, and case study-based approach. Data collection techniques included observation, in-depth interviews with elders and community participants, and documentation. Data analysis was conducted through the stages of data collection, data reduction, and drawing conclusions using triangulation techniques to maintain data validity.
The results show that the buffalo head is not only understood as a ritual offering, but also as a symbol of strength, sacrifice, hard work, and prosperity in agrarian communities. The buffalo head is interpreted as a symbolic communication medium connecting humans with ancestors, God, and nature. The process of throwing the buffalo head into the river symbolizes hope for safety, ward off disasters, and blessings for the community. Furthermore, this symbol strengthens social solidarity and the collective identity of the Ngantru community. From a cultural communication perspective, the buffalo head serves as a nonverbal message passed down from generation to generation through ritual practices. Thus, the Nyadran Dam Bagong ritual serves not only as a spiritual medium but also as a manifestation of local cultural preservation, preserving the values of local wisdom, togetherness, and social harmony amidst the tide of modernization.