The Meaning of Social Life in the Local Weh-Wehan Tradition: A Cultural Practice of Kaliwungu, Kendal

Fadla Robbi

doi:10.70062/incoils.v5i1.413

Authors

Fadla Robbi Universitas Islam Negeri Syekh Wasil Kediri

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70062/incoils.v5i1.413

Keywords:

Local Tradition, Living Hadits, Social

Abstract

The Weh-Wehan tradition in Kaliwungu, Kendal is a local cultural practice that carries significant social, religious, educational, and cultural functions within the community. This study aims to examine the social meaning of the tradition, the religious values embodied through the concept of Living Hadith, its educational implications, and the role of youth in cultural preservation. Employing a qualitative approach with a library research design, this study relies entirely on scientific literature, including journal articles, books, and documented reports, without conducting direct field observation. Through systematic analysis, the data were categorized into three main areas: the social practices embedded in the Weh-Wehan tradition, the religious and cultural values interpreted through the tradition, and the forms of community participation within it. The findings reveal that the Weh-Wehan tradition strengthens social solidarity, revitalizes prophetic values through acts of sharing and maintaining social ties, functions as a medium for character education, and contributes to psychological well-being by reinforcing a sense of belonging. Furthermore, youth involvement plays a strategic role in ensuring the continuity of the tradition, particularly through active participation and digital adaptation. This study concludes that the Weh-Wehan tradition serves not only as a ritual symbol but also as a socioreligious instrument that remains relevant in the dynamics of contemporary society.

Author Biography

Fadla Robbi, Universitas Islam Negeri Syekh Wasil Kediri

The Weh-Wehan tradition in Kaliwungu, Kendal is a local cultural practice that carries significant social, religious, educational, and cultural functions within the community. This study aims to examine the social meaning of the tradition, the religious values embodied through the concept of Living Hadith, its educational implications, and the role of youth in cultural preservation. Employing a qualitative approach with a library research design, this study relies entirely on scientific literature, including journal articles, books, and documented reports, without conducting direct field observation. Through systematic analysis, the data were categorized into three main areas: the social practices embedded in the Weh-Wehan tradition, the religious and cultural values interpreted through the tradition, and the forms of community participation within it. The findings reveal that the Weh-Wehan tradition strengthens social solidarity, revitalizes prophetic values through acts of sharing and maintaining social ties, functions as a medium for character education, and contributes to psychological well-being by reinforcing a sense of belonging. Furthermore, youth involvement plays a strategic role in ensuring the continuity of the tradition, particularly through active participation and digital adaptation. This study concludes that the Weh-Wehan tradition serves not only as a ritual symbol but also as a socioreligious instrument that remains relevant in the dynamics of contemporary society.

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