Makna Kultural dan Fungsi Sosial pada Pakaian Adat Batak Simalungun Kajian Etnolingustik

Abstract

Traditional attire refers to clothing worn during various customary and cultural activities, passed down through generations. Beyond merely covering the body, the traditional attire of the Batak Simalungun people embodies cultural values and meanings while serving specific social functions. This study aims to identify the elements of Batak Simalungun traditional attire and to analyze its cultural significance and social functions. A qualitative descriptive method employing an ethnolinguistic approach was used. Data were gathered from informants through interviews, note-taking, and recordings. The study identified 9 elements of Batak Simalungun traditional attire: Gotong, Bulang (Marhajabuan), Tolugbalanga, Baju Soja, Gotong Porsa, Bulang (Sayur Matua), masks, Baju (shirts/tunics), and the Hornbill (Enggang) costume. Cultural meanings identified include values of cultural identity, respect, honor, sanctity, maturity, responsibility, authority, leadership, sincerity, affection, solace, propriety, wisdom, courage, and grandeur. Social functions identified include serving as an expression of cultural identity and social status, a means of showing respect, a support for customary practices, a medium for conveying moral values and counsel, a source of solace, an indicator of social roles, and a vehicle for cultural preservation.