Java is so rich in culture and traditions. One of the Javanese traditions is called "Turun Tanah," which literally translates "to go down to the ground." When a baby turns 7 months old, the parents will host the celebration "turun tanah." It's a celebration that has a lot of symbolism about the baby's future.
When I was still in Malang, I got invited to a "turun tanah" ceremony for the baby of a parent at the TK. The mom is also a relative of my friend, Bu Fitri. The ceremony was women only and was quite the experience!
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| They started out by reading Islamic worship out of a book they had, which was all in Arabic, and as they did, a family member brought the baby around the circle and every woman put white powder on his face. |
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| I think he was a little overwhelmed...poor little guy! |
The main ritual they did was placed him down on the ground(hence the name "turun tanah") and placed different objects in front of him. There were necklaces and money, a pencil and book, and an Islamic book. When they placed him down, whatever object he picked up first symbolizes his future. If he chose the money or necklace, that signified that he would become wealthy. If he chose a book or pencil, he would have a high education and be successful. If he chose the Islamic book, he would be devout and a religious leader.
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| Which one did he go for?? |
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| The pencil won! The best part of the picture...I love how wide his eyes are!! He's a cutie! |
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Me with my friend, Bu Fitri, and her daughter, at the ceremony.
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i love this! so fun to experience that!
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