KOMUNIKASI RITUAL DALAM TRADISI PUKUL MANYAPU DI NEGERI MAMALA, KABUPATEN MALUKU TENGAH (Studi pada Masyarakat Pelaku Ritual Pukul Manyapu)

Pukul Manyapu tradition is a tradition that is routinely carried out by the people of Mamala Village every seventh Syawal with an implementation process that requires the ritual performers to whip each other until they bleed. Pukul Manyapu tradition is carried out as a form of expression of gratitude to Allah for the help and blessings from Mamala Oil. This research aims to explain the ritual communication process that occurs Pukul Manyapu tradition in Negeri Mamala, Central Maluku Regency. This research uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive type and is based on case study research. Data collection techniques were obtained using interview and documentation techniques with six research subjects obtained through purposive sampling techniques. All data was analyzed using the analytical concept of Robert K. Yin which tested the validity of the data using data source triangulation techniques. The research results showed that ritual communication in the Pukul Manyapu tradition aims to revive the cultural values ​​and beliefs of the Mamala people, foster a sense of pride in customs, and encourage commitment to maintaining and preserving customs. In carrying out Pukul Manyapu tradition, Mamala Oil symbolizes togetherness without expecting profit and is a healing medium for ritual performers. Its use strengthen the social and cultural meaning which emphasizes the importance of solidarity, as well as the religious meaning which refers to the greatness of God in providing help to his servants. Therefore, the meaning of the messages contained in Pukul Manyapu tradition encourages community participation through symbolic interaction, by interpreting verbal and non-verbal communication contained in each series of implementation of the tradition.