"Bakar Batu Tradition: A Unique Papua Culture Ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr
One of the traditions that draws attention and attracts tourists in Papua is bakar batu. This tradition is carried out before Ramadan or during the Eid al-Fitr celebrations every year, especially in the Papua Mountain region. Bakar batu is part of Papua's cultural wealth that has existed for a long time and is still preserved by the local community today.
What is the Bakar Batu Tradition?
Bakar batu is a unique cooking tradition from Papua, performed by embedding hot stones into a pit containing food wrapped in banana leaves. This process uses the heat from the stones to cook the food slowly.
The tradition is commonly carried out by the people of Papua, particularly in the central mountain region, as part of preparations for breaking the fast during Ramadan or celebrating Eid al-Fitr.
The Process of Bakar Batu
Preparing for bakar batu typically involves many community members, from children to the elderly, emphasizing mutual cooperation and togetherness.
The process takes considerable time, often ranging from 8 to 10 hours, and includes the following steps:
Food Preparation: The food is seasoned with typical Papua spices and wrapped in banana leaves.
Heating the Stones: Stones are heated until they reach high temperatures.
Layering the Pit: The hot stones are placed at the bottom of a dug pit, with a fire beneath them to maintain the required heat.
Cooking: The food is placed in the pit, layered with heated stones, and left to cook slowly.
Although it requires patience, the result is a delicious and flavorful meal.
The Social Significance of Bakar Batu
Beyond its culinary aspect, bakar batu holds profound social value. During the cooking process, community members gather, converse, and strengthen their bonds.
Once the food is ready, everyone enjoys the meal together in a communal event known as ""makan bersama"" (shared meal). This moment fosters togetherness, allowing people to share happiness, especially after a day of fasting. It also symbolizes unity and solidarity within the community.
A Symbol of Papua's Cultural Diversity
The bakar batu tradition reflects the rich cultural diversity of Papua. Despite the many tribes with different traditions in Papua, bakar batu serves as a unifying activity. This tradition demonstrates the people's commitment to togetherness and mutual respect for differences.
While the exact origin of this tradition is uncertain, as there are no written records, it has been passed down through generations and remains preserved today. This continuity reflects the enduring values of togetherness and cooperation within the Papuan community.
Conclusion
Bakar batu is a unique and fascinating tradition from Papua that combines culinary and social significance. Through its process, it highlights the importance of strengthening relationships, celebrating togetherness, and preserving cultural diversity.
More than just a shared meal event, bakar batu symbolizes peace, brotherhood, and the enduring strength of Papuan culture."
