The Language of Tradition: Oral Literature and Cultural Identity among Sasambo Communities
Published:
2026-02-28Downloads
Abstract
Traditional oral traditions play an important role in preserving local wisdom, cultural identity, and social values within indigenous communities. This study aims to examine the forms, functions, meanings, similarities, and differences of oral traditions among the Sasambo communities, consisting of the Sasak, Samawa (Sumbawa), and Mbojo (Bima–Dompu) ethnic groups in West Nusa Tenggara Province. This study employed a qualitative, descriptive approach using library research. The data were collected from the scientific literature on oral traditions such as sesenggak, lawas, kapatu, and other forms of local oral expressions. Data analysis was conducted using content analysis techniques through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings revealed that oral traditions in Sasambo communities function as media for transmitting moral values, character education, cultural identity, and social control. The Sasak community emphasizes symbolic language and wisdom in speech, the Samawa community highlights vocal arts and expressive social interaction, while the Mbojo community focuses on philosophical values and structured social norms. In conclusion, oral traditions remain an essential cultural instrument in preserving local wisdom amid globalization. This study contributes to the development of cultural and ethnolinguistic studies related to oral traditions in eastern Indonesian societies.
Keywords:
oral tradition Sasambo community local wisdom cultural identity character educationReferences
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