Fungsi Sosial Tradisi Molebingga dalam Kehidupan Masyarakat Rote Dengka

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the implementation anf social meaning of the

Molebingga tradition on the Rote Dengka community and to explain its function in

strengthening social solidarity amid modernization. A qualitative approach with a

libraray research method was used by analyzing written sources about Rote culture,

the Molebingga tradition, and theories of social function and solidarity. Data were

analyzed deescriptively to identify the social value embedded in the ritual. The

results showed that Molebingga was not merely a post-funeral ritual but also a

medium for social recovery, kinship reinforcement, and value education for younger

generations. The social values reflected in the tradition include kinship

responsibility, solidarity, empathy, mutual cooperation, and moral-emotional

restoration. This tradition function to maintain social harmony and stengthen

community unity in Rote Dengka depite social changes. The study recommended

involving young generations and applying educational approaches to preserve the

social values of Molebingga as a culturally relevant heritage for modern life