Ludruk East Java: Javanese Mysticism In The Frame Of Magical Realism

Abstract

This study explores the mysticism in the Ludruk Kebo Kicak and Ronggo Boyo stories, which are beliefs prevalent in Javanese society. This research aims to uncover the mystic elements, the socio-cultural context that underlies the Ludruk tales, and their relevance to modern religious life. To achieve this, the study employs the magical realism theory proposed by Wendy B. Faris, which comprises concepts such as the irreducible element, the phenomenal world, unsettling doubts, merging realism, and the disruption of time, space and identity. The research method utilized was qualitative descriptive. The data collection technique employed in this study was the observation and note-taking technique, while data analysis was carried out through a descriptive exposition of scenes and dialogue. The research findings indicate that the Ludruk: Kebo Kicak and Ronggoboyo performances possess a strong magical realism element. The mysticism that arises includes ritual possession, the entry of a mystical object into the body, blood, buffalo, mantra, animal sounds, and Javanese chants. The Ludruk plays of Kebo Kicak and Ronggo Boyo contain socio-cultural issues, namely, a community that enjoys the occult and believes in witch doctors as an alternative solution to problems. The moral messages that can be drawn from this study are: 1) Whoever sows goodness will reap goodness in return; 2) Goodness shall be rewarded with kindness, while wrongdoing shall be met with retribution; 3) The supernatural entities do exist and coexist alongside humans; 4) Perfection belongs only to God, while imperfection is a trait of humanity. The relevance to modern life is the loss of faith in religion, resulting in the mixing of religion and culture.