Lebaran Ketupat: A Traditional Indonesian Celebration
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Date for 2025: In 2025, Lebaran Ketupat falls on April 7th, which is the 8th day of Syawal. This celebration takes place a week after Idul Fitri (or Eid al-Fitr) and involves observing six days of voluntary fasting.
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Origin and Significance: Lebaran Ketupat is a tradition closely associated with one of the Nine Saints of Islam in Java, Sunan Kalijaga. It is believed that Sunan Kalijaga introduced the concept of ‘ketupat’ to the Javanese people. The tradition evolved from existing practices of ‘slametan’ (community feasts) and serves as a means to teach Islamic values of gratitude, charity, and fostering relationships on the day of Lebaran (Eid al-Fitr).
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Symbolism of Ketupat: The word ‘ketupat’ is derived from the Javanese term “ngaku lepat,” meaning “admitting mistakes.” By consuming ketupat, individuals symbolically acknowledge their faults, seek forgiveness, and absolve one another. The dish holds deeper symbolism through its preparation: the diamond-shaped rice cake wrapped in coconut leaves symbolizes protection from harm, while its four corners represent the principle of “kiblat papat lima pancer,” signifying that humanity always returns to Allah.
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Symbolism in the Weaving and Colors: The intricate weaving of the coconut leaves symbolizes the various mistakes of humanity, while the pure white color of the ketupat, revealed when it is cut open, signifies cleanliness and purity after seeking forgiveness. The rice filling represents prosperity and abundance following the festivities of Idul Fitri.
Through the tradition of Lebaran Ketupat, Indonesians, especially those in Java, not only enjoy a culinary delight but also engage in a symbolic act of reconciliation, purification, and spiritual reaffirmation during the festive season.
