INTERNALIZATION OF THE EARTH CHARITY TRADITION IN PRESERVING LOCAL CULTURE IN KALIGANGSA VILLAGE, MARGADANA DISTRICT, TEGAL CITY

Abstract

Internalization of the Earth Alms Tradition in Preserving Local Culture in Kaligangsa Village, Maragadana District, Tegal City”. This study aims to describe the implementation of the Earth Alms tradition, the cultural values contained therein, and the process of internalizing these values in the lives of the people of Kaligangsa Village, Margadana District, Tegal City. The Earth Alms tradition is one of the local cultural heritages that is still preserved by the local community as a form of gratitude to God Almighty and respect for ancestors. This study uses a qualitative approach with a case study type. Data collection techniques are carried out through in-depth interviews, direct observation, and documentation. Informants in the study consisted of the village head, the chairman of the Earth Alms committee, religious leaders, traditional elders, and the community. Data analysis techniques are carried out descriptively qualitatively through data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions, and data validity testing is carried out using technical triangulation. The results of the study indicate that the Earth Alms tradition in Kaligangsa is carried out routinely every year through a series of activities such as joint prayers, cultural parades, tumpeng, art performances, and other social activities. This tradition embodies religious, social, and cultural values that are internalized through the active participation of people of all ages, especially the younger generation. The internalization process occurs through direct involvement, social interaction, and cultural education, reinforced by the use of social media and digital documentation. This tradition persists as part of the local cultural identity, passed down from generation to generation despite the challenges of modernization.