Liputan6.com, Jakarta – The Topat War tradition is a unique tradition originating from the island of Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. This tradition is part of a traditional ceremony carried out to respect the cultural values, religion and local beliefs that coexist in Lombok society, especially between Muslims and Hindus.
In this tradition, people from both religions gather in the area of Pura Lingsar, a place of worship that is a symbol of harmony and harmony, to carry out rituals that end in a symbolic battle using ketupat or topat.
The ketupat are thrown to each other in a joyful atmosphere, reflecting the spirit of unity and gratitude for the blessings received in the tradition of topat war.
The Topat War is usually held on the sixth full moon in the Sasak calendar or around November to December in the Gregorian calendar.
This ritual begins with a series of prayers and offerings made by the Hindu community at the temple. They brought various offerings in the form of agricultural products such as fruit, rice and flowers, as a symbol of gratitude to God Almighty.
Meanwhile, Sasak Muslims also attended to pray together at the same location, but in an area called Kemaliq, a holy place for them. The presence of these two religious communities not only shows mutual respect, but also emphasizes the importance of collaboration in maintaining traditions.
After the prayer procession was finished, the symbolic war began. The ketupat used in this tradition had previously been prepared by people from various parts of the village.
These ketupats are not only a symbol of food, but also have a deep philosophical meaning, namely gratitude and hope for blessings for the earth and the harvest. As the war progressed, the atmosphere became boisterous with cheers, laughter and enthusiasm.
Community Harmony
There was no feeling of hostility or revenge, but instead happiness radiated from the faces of the participants. In fact, people often pick up diamonds that fall on the ground to take home because they are believed to bring blessings and good luck.
This tradition reflects values that are very relevant in social life, namely tolerance, cooperation and unity. In the midst of differences in beliefs, the people of Lombok are able to show that diversity is not an obstacle to living in harmony.
On the contrary, these differences are used as cultural wealth that should be protected. The Topat War is also a tourist attraction that attracts many visitors, both local and international, who want to witness the uniqueness of this tradition.
The regional government also fully supports the preservation of this tradition as part of the intangible cultural heritage that must be preserved. In a modern context, the Topat War tradition teaches the importance of maintaining relations between religious communities and caring for ancestral heritage.
When many conflicts occur due to differences, the people of Lombok with this tradition show that harmony can be achieved through understanding, dialogue and respect for differences.
This tradition is not only a cultural heritage, but also a life lesson that is relevant for all mankind, wherever they are. The Topat War is a reminder that diversity is a strength, not a weakness, and that local traditions have an important role in building the identity and solidarity of a community.
Author: Belvana Fasya Saad
