PASSURA’ TORAJA | Sejarah, Jenis-Jenis&Filosofi Ukiran Toraja, Pa’barre Allo| Torajanese Carvings

Summary

The transcript explores the rich history and significance of Toraja carvings, particularly focusing on the symbolic meanings behind the four main traditional motifs used in the Toraja Tongkonan houses. Each carving represents vital aspects of life such as unity, law, prosperity, and divine connection. The motifs are deeply embedded in the culture, reflecting the philosophical beliefs and social structure of the Toraja people. The narrative also touches on the evolution of Toraja carvings, illustrating how they symbolize not only the daily life but also the spiritual and social growth of the community over centuries.

Takeaways

• 😀 The *Tongkonan* houses of the Toraja people are decorated with carvings that hold deep symbolic meanings related to Toraja's way of life.
• 😀 The earliest known Toraja carvings, called *pasura*, were created as symbols of life's key issues and societal relations.
• 😀 There are four main *pasura* carvings, each representing a core concept in Toraja culture: unity, rules, prosperity, and human-divine relations.
• 😀 The first *pasura*, *pabar Allah*, symbolizes the unity of the Toraja people and the belief in the sun as a source of life and guidance.
• 😀 The second *pasura*, *pammanu londong*, is shaped like a rooster and represents the societal rules and the concept of justice, symbolized by the rooster's crowing.
• 😀 The third *pasura*, *pa'tedong*, resembles a buffalo and symbolizes wealth, prosperity, and the work ethic, with buffaloes being central to Toraja life.
• 😀 The fourth *pasura*, *pa susu*, represents the relationship between humans and the divine, symbolizing equality before God and the democratic structure of Toraja society.
• 😀 The placement of these four *pasura* carvings is symbolic, with specific locations on the *Tongkonan* representing their roles in Toraja life.
• 😀 Over time, the number of Toraja carvings expanded, with each new carving depicting other aspects of daily life, relationships, and cultural practices.
• 😀 Today, Toraja has around 150 different types of carvings, each with its own symbolic meaning and specific placement on *Tongkonan* houses.

Q & A

What is the significance of Toraja carvings?

Toraja carvings, particularly the symbols on the Tongkonan houses, hold deep cultural significance. They represent important aspects of Toraja life, including unity, law, prosperity, and the relationship between humans and the divine. These symbols are not just decorative but embody the values, beliefs, and the philosophy of Toraja society.

How did Toraja carvings evolve over time?

Toraja carvings evolved from four primary symbols that represented key aspects of life, such as unity, law, prosperity, and spirituality. As time passed, the carvings expanded to include other symbols from daily life, nature, and animals, reflecting the growth and development of Toraja society and culture.

What are the four main symbols in Toraja carvings?

The four main symbols in Toraja carvings are: Pasura Pabar Allah (the sun symbolizing unity and divine guidance), Pasura Pammanu Londong (the rooster symbolizing law and order), Pasura Pa'tedong (the buffalo symbolizing wealth and prosperity), and Pasura Apa Susu (the straight lines symbolizing human connection to the divine and democracy).

What does the Pasura Pabar Allah symbol represent?

The Pasura Pabar Allah symbol, shaped like the sun, represents unity, the guiding light of the sun, and the belief in the supreme power that unites the people of Toraja. It reflects the philosophical and religious foundation of the community.

What is the significance of the Pasura Pammanu Londong symbol?

The Pasura Pammanu Londong symbol, resembling a rooster, signifies law, rules, and order within Toraja society. It is also associated with the traditional legal system of Toraja, particularly the 'Si Londong' court, and the rooster's crowing, which marks the passage of time.

What does the Pasura Pa'tedong symbol mean?

The Pasura Pa'tedong symbol, resembling a buffalo, represents wealth and prosperity in Toraja culture. The buffalo plays a crucial role in the community's economic and ceremonial life, symbolizing hard work and the foundation of wealth.

How does the Pasura Apa Susu symbol relate to Toraja beliefs?

The Pasura Apa Susu symbol, represented by straight lines, signifies the connection between humans and the divine. It also reflects Toraja's democratic values, where all humans are equal before God, and the community has a structure based on mutual respect and shared beliefs.

Why are these symbols placed on the Tongkonan houses?

The symbols are placed on the Tongkonan houses to reflect and preserve the core values and beliefs of Toraja society. They are meant to serve as constant reminders of the philosophical and cultural principles that guide the community's life and ensure its prosperity.

How many types of Toraja carvings exist today?

Today, there are about 150 types of Toraja carvings, each representing different aspects of life, nature, and human experiences. These carvings have evolved to include symbols of social progress, joy, and other elements of Toraja culture.

What is the role of Toraja carvings in the community’s daily life?

Toraja carvings play an integral role in daily life by visually representing cultural values, social norms, and religious beliefs. They are not only ornamental but also serve as educational tools, teaching younger generations about their heritage and the importance of maintaining harmony with nature and the divine.