P008 Islamisasi Budaya Lokal Dalam Tradisi Seren Taun Masyarakat Sunda

Abstract

This study aims to examine the structure and process of Islamization of local culture that occurs within the agrarian tradition of Seren Taun among traditional Sundanese society. This study employs a library research method with a historical-cultural approach. As a communal annual rite, Seren Taun was originally deeply rooted in the cosmology of Sunda Wiwitan, centered on the veneration of the mythological figure Nyi Pohaci Sanghyang Asri as the goddess of fertility and rice. Through the culturally adaptive proselytization approach inherited from earlier Islamic scholars such as Wali Songo, Syekh Quro, and Sunan Gunung Djati, this tradition was not abolished but instead underwent a process of profound reconceptualization. The outer structure or physical form of the tradition was preserved as an aesthetic heritage, while its spiritual essence was aligned with the principles of Islamic tawhid. The focus of gratitude was deconstructed and redirected entirely toward Allah SWT (Gusti Nu Maha Suci). This transformation is concretely evidenced through the infiltration of Islamic practices, such as the replacement of mantras with communal dhikr, the recitation of salawat during the ngajayak procession, and the allocation of the rice barn (leuit indung), which adopts the spirit of zakat and sadaqah for social welfare. This study concludes that the preservation of Seren Taun represents a tangible manifestation of historical dialectics that positions Islam as rahmatan lil 'alamin, wherein the purity of tawhid can coexist peacefully and harmoniously with the authentic identity of Sundanese culture. This study contributes to strengthening the understanding that cultural da'wah is a relevant and effective approach in maintaining harmony between Islam and local wisdom in Indonesia.