The Meaning of “Tetek Melek” as a Media of “Tolak Balak Pagebluk” of Covid-19 in the Culture of Tulungagung Society

Abstract

The plague of Covid-19 is currently still a world concern. So some time ago the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that Covid-19 was a pandemic. Not only Covid-19 currently endemic, it turns out that the Java region has also experienced a number of plagues that were considered deadly at that time. Apart from endemic plagues, the Java Island has also experienced a pandemic plague. Javanese people have their own way of warding off the occurrence of this plague. Tolak balak through Tetek Melek is believed to be able to ward off plague, so the purpose of this study is to find out the meaning of symbols of Tetek Melek as a media of Tolak Balak Pagebluk covid 19 in the culture of  Tulungagung society that should be preserved. The research uses qualitative method. The data in this study are the results of interviews with informants and the actions of the perpetrators of Tetek Melek. The data collection method in this study is by in-depth interviews and observations in the South of Tulungagung area. The results showed that Tetek Melek is an inheritance from their ancestors which is still practiced by some people of Tulungagung. It is rich in symbols and meanings that need to be preserved as a heritage from ancestors. In addition, it means an effort to reject the dangers of Covid.